Adrenal glands are organs located near the kidneys


Each of two glands is composed of a cortex (outer shell) and a medulla (inner core)


Medulla secretes epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine which help regulate the

part of the C.N.S. that controls the muscles of the heart, digestive system and

   respiratory system


Cancer of the adrenal cortex is rare


Variably malignant


Usually diagnosed only after regional or distant metastatic spread


Mortality rate less than 0.2 % of all cancer deaths combined


Cortex produces 4 hormones:

1. Corticosteroids

2. Hydrocortisone, which helps control the metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrates

3. Aldosterone, which influences the sodium and potassium levels in body fluids

4. Androgens and estrogens, which affect secondary sex characteristics in both males and females, i.e. facial hair.