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The adrenal glands are located superior to the kidneys. They are divided into cortical and medullary regions that can be differentiated histologically and through immunohistochemistry. The adrenal cortex is subdivided into three sub-regions: zona glomerulosa, which secretes aldosterone; zona fasciculata and zona reticularis, which secrete cortisol and androgens. The medullary region releases epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
Among other functions, the adrenal hormones are implicated in nutrient metabolism, sodium reabsorption, blood pressure homeostasis, and sexual differentiation. Abnormal secretion or response levels of the hormones will cause problems in the aforementioned functions. Similarly, there may also be associated immunological, renal, and skeletal disorders.
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