Adrenal Gland Function Flashcards
describe the two part structure of the adrenal gland
the adrenal gland consists of the cortex and medulla which are two functionally and structurally different tissues
summarize the hormone pathway from the anterior lobe of the pituitary to through the adrenal gland
anterior pituitary releases ACTH which acts on the adrenal medulla which then releases epi/norepi (medulla) or glucocorticoids (cortisol)
*ACTH has + feedback, cortisol has - *
what are the 3 zones of the adrenal cortex?
- zona glomerulosa: secretes mineralcorticoids (salt)
- zona fasciculata: glucocorticoids (steroids)
- zona reticularis: androgen (sex)
the medulla is responsible for release of what?
catecholamines (norepi and epi)
cortisol release effects
- regulates macronutrient metabolism
- maintains GI structure
- maintain normal BP
- adaptation to stress
Aldosterone effects
sodium retention, K excretion, H ion excretion
aldosterone increases sodium absorption and increased potassium secretion from the kidneys, sweat glands, salivary glands, and GI epithelial cells
extracellular fluid volume control
catecholamines effects
vasoconstriction
increased HR and contractility
vasodilation of smooth muscles
glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, lipolysis, increased metabolic rate
what layers of the cortex are effected in hypoadrenocorticism?
zona gomerulosa and fasciculata causing cortisol and mineralcorticoid deficiency
adrenal tumor cortical
hyperaldosteronism, excess aldosterone (hypertension)
adrenal tumor medulla
pheochromocytoma
excess and episodic release of catecholamine
what would excess epinephrine cause
elevated glucose and secondary DM
what would excess norepi cause
hypertension, retinal hemorrhage, and splenic contraction
aldosterone release is mediated by __
RAAS system and potassium concentrations
synthesis and release of glucocorticoids from zona fasciculata are dependent upon what?
ACTH from the pituitary
adrenal medulla cells release catecholamines in response to what?
stress, pain, injury and fear
