adrenal Flashcards
(36 cards)
What part of the adrenal gland produces adrenocorticosteroids?
The adrenal cortex.
What is the main glucocorticoid in humans?
Cortisol.
What are three key effects of glucocorticoids like cortisol?
Anti-inflammatory, catabolic, involved in carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism.
What is the main mineralocorticoid?
Aldosterone.
What does aldosterone regulate?
Water and sodium balance.
What are two immune-related effects of cortisol?
Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive.
How does cortisol affect bone and infection resistance?
Decreases bone density and resistance to infection.
How does cortisol affect fat distribution?
Increases fat in neck and face.
How can cortisol impact mood?
It may affect mood.
How is cortisol transported in blood?
Bound to a protein carrier.
How does cortisol enter cells?
As a free hormone, it crosses the cell membrane and binds its receptor.
What happens after cortisol binds its receptor?
The hormone-receptor complex moves to the nucleus and binds DNA to regulate transcription.
What triggers the a Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis?
Stress.
What hormone does the hypothalamus release in response to stress?
CRH (Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone).
What hormone does the anterior pituitary release after CRH stimulation?
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone).
What does ACTH stimulate the adrenal cortex to release?
Cortisol.
How does cortisol regulate its own production?
Through negative feedback—cortisol inhibits CRH and ACTH release.
What hormone is elevated in Cushing’s syndrome?
Cortisol.
What are five symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome?
Osteoporosis, weakened immunity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fat redistribution, depression.
What is the treatment for Cushing’s syndrome?
Remove the gland or inhibit hormone synthesis.
What hormone is deficient in Addison’s disease?
Cortisol.
What is the treatment for Addison’s disease?
Cortisol replacement therapy.
What are symptoms of Addison’s disease?
Increased susceptibility to stress/infection, low blood glucose, poor protein/fat mobilization, muscle weakness, weight loss, fatigue.
What causes skin and oral tissue darkening in Addison’s disease?
Reduced cortisol leads to increased ACTH and MSH → pigmentation.
