The most abundant cells in the medulla is the chromaffin cells.
The adrenal medulla is made up of nervous tissue and secretes catecholamines in response to neuronal signals. The cells of the zona reticularis are smaller and darker stained than the ones in zona fasciculata. These cells produce weak androgens and some glucocorticoids. Zona reticularis the inner layer, consists of cells arranged in anastomosing cords, giving it a reticular pattern. Lipid droplets give the cells a foamy appearance.
The shapes of the cells are cuboidal or polygonal with a poorly stained cytoplasm. Zona fasciculata the middle and broadest layer and consists of glucocorticoids producing cells which are arranged in parallel cords, surrounded by sinusoid capillaries. The round cell nucleus is darkly stained and the cytoplasm is acidophilic. The cells are cuboidal to columnar in shape and arranged in rounded clumps, glomeruli, surrounded by sinusoidal capillaries.
Zona glomerulosa the outer layer, produces aldosterone which is important for the control of blood pressure. The adrenal cortex secretes corticosteroids and androgens and consists of three layers, namely: Each gland consists of two parts, the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The adrenal glands are two small endocrine organs triangular to semilunar shape, located right on top of the kidneys and are enveloped by a fibrous capsule surrounded by adipose tissue.
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