The adrenal glands are a pair of organs situated above the kidneys. These glands normally secrete several products which are important in maintaining normal body homeostasis. These include cortisol, aldosterone, and epinephrine. Cortisol is important in regulating many aspects of metabolism, including glucose and insulin metobolism, as well as fat metabolism.
Aldosterone is important in regulating minerals in the blood stream especially sodium and potassium.
Epinephrine and norepinephrine, commonly known as adrenaline and noradrenaline, are also produced by the adrenal glands. These stimulatory molecules are important in the bodies response to stress. Tumors of the adrenal glands are uncommon. Because of their deep location, a mass is not usually able to be felt by the patient or doctor. The clue to the presence of an adrenal tumor, therefore, is usually caused by the products that the tumor secretes.