Zona Glomerulosa

zona glomerulosa

The zona glomerulosa is the thin outermost layer of the adrenal cortex, just under the capsule, where cells lie in rounded clusters. It produces aldosterone, which is controlled mainly by the renin-angiotensin system and blood potassium rather than by ACTH.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

Location	Outermost zone of the adrenal cortex, directly beneath the capsule
Secretes	Aldosterone
Blood Supply	Subcapsular arterial plexus from the suprarenal arteries

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Makes aldosterone, which acts on the kidney to retain sodium and water and excrete potassium, helping maintain blood pressure and blood volume.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

An aldosterone-producing adenoma or bilateral hyperplasia of this zone causes primary aldosteronism (Conn syndrome), a common and under-recognized cause of high blood pressure, sometimes with low potassium. Because this zone is not mainly ACTH-driven, aldosterone is usually preserved in pituitary (secondary) adrenal insufficiency but lost in Addison disease.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Primary Aldosteronism (Conn Syndrome)

Autonomous aldosterone overproduction causing hypertension, often with low potassium, from an adenoma or bilateral hyperplasia.

Hypoaldosteronism

Deficient aldosterone causing high potassium, salt loss and low blood pressure, seen in Addison disease and some kidney conditions.

Explore

More in Abdomen

Browse all of Abdomen →