A Study on Histogenesis of Human Suprarenal Gland at Various Gestational Age Group: An Observational Study

Background: Microscopically, the adult suprarenal gland is composed of two distinct regions—the cortex and the medulla. The cortex is further subdivided into the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis. Each of these cortical zones exhibits unique structural characteristics and performs specific functional roles.

Objective: To observe microscopic structure of suprarenal gland at various gestational age group.

Materials and Methodology: The present observational study conducted at Department of Anatomy and Obstetrics and Gynecology of Government Medical College and Hospital, Aurangabad. The study was done on 40 spontaneous abortuses and stillborns ranging from 12^th weeks to 36^th weeks of gestation.  The study was approved by the Ethical Committee of the Institute.

Results: Transitional zone is seen right from 12 week becoming distinct at 22 week and there after gradually decreasing and completely disappearing at full term. At 12 weeks, neuroblastic nodules were seen in the capsule and also in the parenchyma of gland. With increasing gestational age, the number of neuroblastic nodules went on increasing till 22 weeks. After that there is a decline in number of neuroblastic nodule and at 28 weeks neuroblastic nodules were not observed.

Conclusion: The study concludes that, histogenesis of the suprarenal gland demonstrates a progressive increase in gland size with advancing gestational age, accompanied by a gradual increase in capsular thickness and vascularity throughout fetal life.