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<p><b>New page</b></p><div>= Adrenal Cortex =<br />
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[[File:Adrenal Gland detail - English.png|thumb|800px|Anatomy of the Adrenal Gland]]<br />
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== Overview ==<br />
The '''adrenal cortex''' is the outer region of the adrenal glands, which are small but crucial endocrine organs located on top of each [[Kidney|kidney]]. This cortex plays a vital role in hormone production, specifically androgens and corticosteroids, essential for various bodily functions.<br />
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== Anatomy and Location ==<br />
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[[File:Adrenal Cortex Pathology.png|thumb|600px|Hormones Produced by the Adrenal Cortex]]<br />
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* The adrenal cortex surrounds the inner [[Adrenal Medulla|adrenal medulla]].<br />
* Each adrenal gland is divided into three distinct zones: the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis.<br />
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== Hormone Production ==<br />
=== Androgens ===<br />
* Androgens, such as testosterone, are male sex hormones but are also present in females.<br />
* They are responsible for the development of male characteristics and reproductive activity.<br />
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=== Corticosteroids ===<br />
* The adrenal cortex produces two main types of corticosteroids: glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids.<br />
* '''Glucocorticoids''', like cortisol, regulate the body's stress response, metabolism, and immune response.<br />
* '''Mineralocorticoids''', such as aldosterone, control blood pressure and electrolyte balance.<br />
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== Functions ==<br />
* Regulating metabolism and the immune system.<br />
* Maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function.<br />
* Managing the body's response to stress.<br />
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== Disorders of the Adrenal Cortex ==<br />
* Conditions like [[Addison's Disease]] and [[Cushing's Syndrome]] result from the dysfunction of the adrenal cortex.<br />
* Addison's Disease is characterized by insufficient hormone production, whereas Cushing's Syndrome involves excessive hormone production.<br />
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== Diagnostic Tests ==<br />
* Blood tests to measure levels of adrenal hormones.<br />
* Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to assess the structure of the adrenal glands.<br />
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== Treatment and Management ==<br />
* Hormone replacement therapy for conditions like Addison's Disease.<br />
* Surgical intervention in cases of adrenal tumors or hyperplasia.<br />
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== See Also ==<br />
* [[Endocrinology]]<br />
* [[Hormone Therapy]]<br />
* [[Stress Response]]<br />
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== References ==<br />
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== External Links ==<br />
* [https://www.endocrine.org Endocrine Society - Adrenal Glands]<br />
* [https://www.mayoclinic.org Mayo Clinic - Adrenal Gland Disorders]<br />
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[[Category:Endocrinology]]<br />
[[Category:Human Anatomy]]<br />
[[Category:Hormones]]<br />
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