| Location | Term | Definiton | Note |
| Adrenal cortex | Hyperaldosteronism | Condition in which hypersecretion of aldosterone causes reabsorption of large amounts of sodium and water from the kidneys into the blood | this results in hypertension, electrolyte imbalance, and weakness. |
| Adrenal cortex | Hyperaldosteronism | Condition in which hyposecretion of aldosterone causes a low level of sodium in the blood | this results in dizziness,
weakness, and decreased blood pressure. |
| Adrenal cortex | Cushing syndrome | Condition in which hypersecretion of cortisol stimulates the liver
to convert too much glycogen to glucose; this elevates blood
glucose levels and results in rapid weight gain. | • Fat deposits develop in the abdomen, face, and upper back.
• Thinning of connective tissue causes red cheeks and
abdominal striae.
• Decreased protein synthesis leads to muscle wasting and
weakness. |
| Adrenal cortex | Addison disease | Condition in which hyposecretion of cortisol leads to low blood glucose, fatigue, weight loss, and decreased ability to tolerate
stress, disease, or surgery | the skin also develops an unusual bronzed color. |
| Adrenal cortex | Adrenogenital
syndrome | Condition in which hypersecretion of androgens causes alterations in sexual characteristics. | • In girls, the clitoris and labia enlarge to resemble a penis and
scrotum.
• In boys, precocious puberty occurs.
• In adult females, hypersecretion leads to virilism, amenorrhea, and
excessive dark hair on the forearms and face. |
| Adrenal medulla | Pheochromocytoma | Condition in which hypersecretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine causes heart palpitations, severe sweating, headaches, and severe hypertension that can lead to stroke | caused by an adrenal adenoma with a gray-tan appearance. |
