Which endocrine glands are located directly above the kidneys?

• A. Pineal glands
• B. Pituitary glands
• C. Adrenal glands
• D. Thyroid glands

Answer: (C)

Adrenal glands sit on top of each kidney, hence the term suprarenal glands. This position makes them the endocrine structures directly above the kidneys. They have a cortex and a medulla and release hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline. By contrast, the pineal gland is in the brain, the pituitary sits at the base of the brain, and the thyroid is in the neck; none of these are located above the kidneys.