Adrenal Anatomy and Physiology.

Damien Bolton, Nathan Lawrentschuk, Abdullah Al-Khanaty, Arjun N Guduguntla, Renu Eapen

Journal: The Urologic clinics of North America 2025;52(2):169-179

PMID: 40250885

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Abstract

The adrenal glands are paired endocrine organs that play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating blood pressure, metabolism, electrolyte balance, and the body's response to stress. Each gland comprises the adrenal cortex, which produces steroid hormones, and the adrenal medulla, responsible for catecholamine synthesis. The cortex is further divided into three functional zones, the zona glomerulosa (mineralocorticoids), zona fasciculata (glucocorticoids), and zona reticularis (androgens), while the medulla secretes adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine under sympathetic control. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the adrenal glands, including their anatomical structure, embryological development, vascular supply, microscopic architecture, and physiological function. Additionally, the historical evolution of adrenal research and the impact of modern molecular advancements are discussed. Understanding the anatomy and function of adrenal gland is crucial for diagnosing and managing adrenal disorders, including hormonal deficiencies, hypersecretion syndromes, and adrenal neoplasms.

Address: Department of Urology, Austin Health, 145 Studley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia.; Department of Urology, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia.; Department of Urology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne; Department of Urology, Peter MacCallum Centre, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.; Department of Urology, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, 145 Studley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia; Department of Urology, Peter MacCallum Centre, 145 Studley Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia. Electronic address: [email protected].

DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2025.01.001

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MeSH Terms: Humans, Adrenal Glands, Adrenal Gland Diseases