adrenal gland, a small, triangular endocrine gland located on the superior portions of the kidneys and surrounded by the protective fat capsule of the kidneys. It is the result of the fusion of two organs, one forming the inner core, or medulla, and the other forming an outer shell, or cortex, each with independent functions. Also called suprarenal gland. See also adrenal cortex, adrenal medulla.
