MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Adrenal glands

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Adrenal glands

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition	Information References

Illustrations

Endocrine glands

Adrenal glands

Definition Return to top

Adrenal glands are triangle-shaped glands located on top of the kidneys.

The outer part of the adrenal gland is called the cortex and produces steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and testosterone. The inner part of the adrenal gland is called the medulla and produces epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are commonly called adrenaline and noradrenaline.

When the glands produce more or less hormones than your body needs, you can become sick.

Information Return to top

Related topics:

References Return to top

Parker KL, Rainey WE. The adrenal glands. In: Griffin JE, Ojeda SR, eds. Textbook of Endocrine Physiology. New York: Oxford University Press; 2004:319-348.

Update Date: 3/18/2008

Updated by: Elizabeth H. Holt, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Yale University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed byDavid Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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