Adrenal Gland Disorders

The adrenal glands, located on the top of each kidney, are responsible for releasing different hormones. Adrenal gland disorders occur when the adrenal glands produce too much or too little of these hormones.

​There are several types of adrenal gland disorders, each with its own symptoms and treatments.

Symptoms of adrenal gland disorders depend on whether the adrenal glands are making too much or too little hormone and on the specific disorder.

Adrenal gland disorders are caused by problems with one or both adrenal glands or by problems with other glands, such as the pituitary gland.

Methods for diagnosing adrenal gland disorders differ depending on the specific disorder. 

Health care providers use a variety of surgical and medical treatments for adrenal gland disorders. The specific treatments vary by the specific type of disorder.

NICHD research on adrenal gland disorders includes:

• NICHD Research Goals
• ​​​Activities and Advances

NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to adrenal gland disorders.

Find answers to other common questions about adrenal gland disorders, such as how to find care and support.

Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about adrenal gland disorders.