Adrenal gland

The adrenal glands are small, triangular endocrine glands located atop each kidney. Each gland has two distinct parts: the outer adrenal cortex and the inner adrenal medulla. The cortex produces steroid hormones: mineralocorticoids (aldosterone) for salt/water balance, glucocorticoids (cortisol) for stress and metabolism, and androgens. The medulla secretes catecholamines (epinephrine/adrenaline, norepinephrine) for the "fight-or-flight" response.