Altunizade Hospital
For detailed information and appointments: +90-536-906-0904
Assoc. Prof. Dr.
Mehmet Kostek
The adrenal gland, also known as the suprarenal gland, all refer to the same organ. This gland, the production center for very specific hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone, is particularly famous for its incidentally detected masses.
What is the function of the adrenal gland?
The adrenal gland produces hormones that regulate the body's stress response, as well as water balance and secondary sexual characteristics. Both the inner (medulla) and outer (cortex) parts produce different hormones, and each level of the outer part produces different hormones in varying amounts.
Therefore, when a mass originating from the adrenal gland is detected, it is necessary to thoroughly evaluate whether or not it secretes hormones, and specifically, which hormones it secretes.
Where is the adrenal gland located?
The adrenal gland, also known as the suprarenal gland, is closely related to the kidney, as its name suggests. The right adrenal gland is located above the kidney, while the left adrenal gland is slightly higher and in front. Although they are adjacent to the kidney, they have no functional relationship with the kidney and are completely separate organs.
The main vein of the right adrenal gland drains directly into the inferior vena cava, the main vein of the lower body, and therefore its surgical treatment involves many subtleties. The main vein of the left adrenal gland, on the other hand, drains into the inferior vena cava after draining into the left renal vein. Therefore, it is recommended that adrenal gland surgery be performed by endocrine surgeons who are experienced in this field and have a good understanding of the anatomy.