Suprarenal Gland Flashcards
What is another name given to the suprarenal glands?
adrenal glands
The suprarenal glands are part of what system?
endocrine
What does the medulla of the suprarenal gland secrete?
epinephrine and norepinephrine (catecholamines)
What does the cortex of the suprarenal gland secrete?
corticosteroids
True or False: the secretions of the suprarenal gland are essential for life?
True
What is the position of the suprarenal gland?
retroperitoneal, supromedial aspect of the kidney
What surrounds the suprarenal gland?
a capsule and renal fascia
What does Addison’s Disease (adrenal hypofunction) affect?
corticosteroid output
What is the shape of the RIGHT suprarenal gland?
pyramidal
What is the shape of the LEFT suprarenal gland?
semilunar
What guides the shape of the suprarenal glands?
the liver and other viscera
What arteries supply the suprarenal glands, and which vessels do they come from?
sperior suprarenal a. (from inferior phrenic a.), middle suprarenal a. (from aorta), inferior suprarenal a. (from renal a.)
Where does the RIGHT suprarenal vein drain?
inferior vena cava (IVC)
Where does the LEFT suprarenal vein drain?
left renal vein
Relative to size, which organ has the largest autonomic innervation?
suprarenal gland
Where do the suprarenal glands receive their nerve supply?
celiac plexus, thoracic splanchnic nerves
What is another name for the nerves that supply the suprarenal glands?
neuroendocrine axis
Where is pain from the kidney or suprarenal gland often referred?
paralumbar region or flank
What does kidney pain accompanied by a high fever indicate?
possible kidney infection (always more common in females due to shorter urethra)
