Adrenal Gland Disorders

Question 1

What are the different parts of the adrenal gland and what do they produce?

Answer 1

Adrenal Cortex:
Zona Glomerulosa - Aldosterone (Mineralocorticoids)
Zona Fasciculata - Cortisol (Glucocorticoid)
Zona Reticularis - Dihydroepiandosterone (DHEA) Androgen

Inner Medulla - Catecholamines

Question 2

Functions of Aldosterone

Answer 2

Acts on renal tubules, intestines, sweat glands
- Sodium reabsorption
- K+ excretion
- H+ excretion
- Water reabsorption -> Increase ECF volume
- Increase blood volume & maintain blood pressure

Question 3

Functions of Cortisol

Answer 3

• Effects on carbohydrates, protein & fat metabolism
• During acute trauma, exercise, infection, operations and other stresses ->increased cortisol -> increased glucose and fatty acid release for energy.
• Anti-inflammatory actions
• Maintain adequate vascular tone during stress.

Question 4

List the various adrenal disorders

Answer 4

Disorders of Adrenal Cortex
*Adrenal hypofunction - Addison’s disease
*Adrenal hyperfunction:
-Cushing’s syndrome (Mainly hypercortisolism)
-Conn’s syndrome (Hyperaldosteronism)
-Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Disorders of adrenal medulla
-Pheochromocytoma