7) Adrenal Medullary Hormones

What part of the nervous system regulates automatic internal body functions such as breathing and digestion?

Autonomic nervous system

What structure primarily controls the autonomic nervous system?

Hypothalamus

What is the main role of the sympathetic nervous system?

Prepare the body for stress or danger

Which spinal cord segments are associated with sympathetic nervous system neurons?

T1 to L2-3

What neurotransmitter is released by sympathetic postganglionic neurons?

Norepinephrine

What makes adrenal medullary cells unique compared to typical sympathetic neurons?

They release epinephrine directly into the bloodstream

Which of the following are classified as catecholamines?

Adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine

What receptor type is responsible for increased heart rate and metabolic activity?

Beta-1 receptors

What is the expected outcome of alpha receptor activation?

Smooth muscle contraction and blood pressure increase

Underactivity of the adrenal medulla is typically:

Only seen with complete gland destruction

What condition may result from total adrenal destruction and lead to hypotension and hypoglycemia?

Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome

Overactivity of the adrenal medulla causes symptoms similar to:

Electrical overstimulation

Which tumour arises from the adrenal medulla and causes catecholamine excess?

Phaeochromocytoma

What term is used for catecholamine-producing tumours located outside the adrenal medulla?

Paraganglionoma

What percentage of phaeochromocytomas are malignant?

10%

What syndrome is associated with inherited phaeochromocytomas?

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2

Which common foods may trigger symptoms in individuals with phaeochromocytoma?

Cheese, wine, and chocolate

Which substances can precipitate a hypertensive crisis in phaeochromocytoma patients?

Cocaine and amphetamines

What is considered the gold standard for diagnosing phaeochromocytoma today?

Plasma metanephrine measurement

If a CT or MRI scan is inconclusive in locating catecholamine-secreting tumours, what imaging is used next?

MIBG scan

What treatment is preferred for a single localized phaeochromocytoma?

Surgery

Before surgery or intervention in phaeochromocytoma, what medication is typically given?

Alpha and beta receptor blockers