Part of the TeachMe Series

The Zona Reticularis

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Original Author(s): Kamashi Pandirajan
Last updated: 8th February 2024
Revisions: 20

Original Author(s): Kamashi Pandirajan
Last updated: 8th February 2024
Revisions: 20

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The adrenal glands are paired endocrine glands found on top of the kidneys. They are composed of an inner medulla and an outer cortex, which is, in turn, divided into three zones. The zona reticularis is the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex. It is responsible for the production and secretion of androgens.

This article will discuss the structure, function and clinical relevance of the zona reticularis.

Structure

The zona reticularis is the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex, lying just above the adrenal medulla. It comprises of cylindrical masses of epithelia arranged in an irregular, net-like pattern.

In comparison to the zona fasciculata, the cells contain fewer vacuoles as well as appearing more irregular and smaller in size.

Fig 1 – Histology of the adrenal gland.

Function

The zona reticularis is the site of biosynthesis of androgen precursors such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione from cholesterol. These androgens are released into the bloodstream and transported to gonads where they are converted into testosterone or oestrogen.

These are largely responsible for the normal development of sexual characteristics during puberty. Further information on the effects of adrenal androgens during puberty can be found here.

In postmenopausal women, the conversion of adrenal androgens to oestrogen is the only source of oestrogen synthesis and hence is a significant source.

Regulation of Adrenal Androgens

Adrenal androgens are regulated by ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) secreted from the anterior pituitary gland which is stimulated by the release of CRH (corticotrophin-releasing hormone) from the hypothalamus.

However, the adrenal androgens along with their potent metabolites such as testosterone do not negatively feedback to ACTH or CRH. Therefore, in cases where there is a dramatic increase in ACTH, this leads to excess production of androgens which cannot be regulated.

Clinical Relevance – Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) can result from one of several autosomal recessive diseases. There is typically a mutation in an enzyme mediating one of the steps necessary in the production of mineralocorticoids or glucocorticoids from cholesterol. This results in a lack of mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids, as well as an excess of testosterone and its derivatives.

Clinical features can include:

  • Virilisation of female babies
  • Neonatal salt-losing crisis
  • Hypotension
  • Hypoglycaemia
  • Hyponatraemia

It may present as a milder form in later life, however, in an acute situation, urgent confirmation is needed. Babies born with CAH will show high levels of testosterone, androstenedione and ACTH.

Treatment requires the replacement of the missing glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, as well as suppression of ACTH. This allows normalisation of the androgen levels. Finally, long-term follow-up is necessary and eventually genetic counselling, as these conditions are inherited.