The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys and are responsible for the production of four main groups of hormones:
• Catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline)
• Aldosterone (involved in the regulation of blood pressure and salt balance)
• Corticosteroids (controls energy levels and the body's response to stress)
• Androgens (male-type hormones)
Disorders of the adrenal gland may result in excess or insufficient production of the above hormones. The adrenal gland may also be affected by various infections and tumours.