The Adrenal Glands Flashcards
two layers of the adrenal glands
outer cortex
inner medulla
three layers of the cortex
- zona glomerulosa
- zona fasciculata
- zona reticularis
what does the zona glomerulosa produce?
mineralocorticoids (aldosterone)
regulated by RAAS/K+
what does the zona fasciculata produce?
glucocorticoids (cortisol)
regulated by ACTH
what does the zona reticularis produce?
adrenal androgens
regulated by ACTH and others
what does the medulla consist of?
chromaffin cells that produce catecholamines (adrenaline and NA) with medullary veins and splanchnic nerves
six classes of steroids receptors
glucocorticoid mineralocorticoid progestin oestrogen androgen vitamin D
actions of glucocorticoids
euphoria/psychosis decreased libido OP decreased wound healing glycogenolysis, lipolysis, proteolysis (central redistribution)
causes of cortex hyperfunction
hyperplasia
adenoma
carcinoma
causes of cortex hypofunction
acute (Waterhouse-Friderichsen)
chronic (Addison’s)
what innervates the medulla?
pre-sympathetic fibres
two types of medullary tumours
- neuroblastoma
2. phaeochromocytoma
primary adrenal insufficiency causes
Addison’s
CAH
TB
malignancy
secondary adrenal insufficiency causes
lack of ACTH
iatrogenic (steroids)
pituitary/hypothalamic problems
