Histological study of normal human suprarenal gland of different age groups

Abstract

Background: Adrenal gland is a lifesaving endocrine gland of the human body. Knowledge of normal microscopic anatomy of the Adrenal gland facilitates Pathologists to correlate and make the differential diagnosis of various adrenal glands associated clinical conditions on histopathological examination.

Aims and Objective: To study histological features of human adrenal gland in the post-natal period at different ages.

Materials and Methods: Present study is conducted with 98 human adrenal glands from 49 unclaimed dead bodies during an autopsy and 22 human adrenal glands from 11 cadavers during routine dissection in S.V Medical College, Tirupati, which were utilized after obtaining consent from the close kith and kin. During the autopsy/dissection, the samples collected were from 2 Years to 64 years of age individuals of both sex with typical external features and divided into three groups. The first group consisted of less than 25 years of age. The second group consists of ages between 26 years to 50 years. The third group included 51 years and above, and all the specimens are processed for histological staining and observed under the microscope.

Results: At 2 years well-developed capsule with large vessels and well-differentiated zones of definitive cortex and medulla were identified. The thick muscular coat of the central vein was identified at 20 years. At 36 years & 45 years, cellular architecture in various zones is very well differentiated. At 65 years, the cortico-medullary demarcation was irregular, and vascularity decreased.

Conclusion: Histological features of pre-pubertal, adult, and old age group sections helps in the understanding of post-natal changes in the growth of the Suprarenal gland and its functions.