

The adrenal glands are controlled by pituitary gland, which is another part of your endocrine system. The adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla are enclosed in an adipose capsule that forms a protective layer around your adrenal gland.

The adrenal medulla is considered a ganglion of the sympathetic nervous system as a cluster of neuron cell bodies. Medullary cells are derived from the embryonic neural crest and are simply modified neurons.

The adrenal medulla releases its secretions directly into the blood. It is surrounded by the adrenal cortex and is the innermost region of your adrenal gland. The adrenal medulla is located at the centre of each adrenal gland. The adrenal medulla is part of your adrenal gland. The innermost adrenal cortical layer, the zona reticularis, lies adjacent to the medulla. The inner most layer of the adrenal cortex, called the zona reticularis, produces androgens, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione (which is a precursor to testosterone), and DHEA sulfate. Cortisol is the main glucocorticoid and it helps in mobilization of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. The zona fasciculata is responsible for producing glucocorticoids and cortisol. Aldosterone is primarily responsible for the regulation of your blood pressure. The outermost layer, called the zona glomerulosa, is the main site for production of aldosterone by the action of an enzyme called aldosterone synthase. Each zone can be recognized and distinguished from one another based on structural and anatomic characteristics. The adrenal cortex includes three main zones. It also produces aldosterone which helps control your blood pressure. Cortisol helps regulate metabolism and allows your body to respond to stress. The adrenal cortex is the outer part of the adrenal gland and is responsible for the production of hormones that are necessary for life, such as cortisol. See also: Adrenal Tumors and Adrenal Cancers: Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment What is adrenal cortex? See also: Neuroblastoma in Adrenal Cancer: Causes, Signs, Symptoms, Risks, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment, Stages the inner region, which is known as the adrenal medulla.the outer part of the adrenal glands, which is called the adrenal cortex.The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney.Įach adrenal gland is comprised of these structures: The right adrenal gland has a maximum width of about 6.1 mm and the left adrenal gland has a maximum width of about 7.9 mm. Shape and size of adrenal glands: The right adrenal gland is generally more like a pyramid in shape and the left adrenal gland is more like a crescent.
