PART I. ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS 



The anatomy of the adrenals has been studied very ex- 

 tensively particularly from the comparative and embryological 

 viewpoints. Much confusion still exists regarding the finer 

 details of the microscopic structure of the glands due to the 

 great difficulty of properly preserving and preparing the tissue 

 for histological study. Many descriptions of the microscopic 

 appearance of the cells of the glands are in reality based on 

 artifacts. Despite these difficulties a great body of facts has 

 been accumulated which throws light on the probable function 

 of the adrenals. Many theories which have been advanced on 

 the basis of physiological or clinical evidence must be dis- 

 carded because they are in conflict with the anatomical facts. 

 On the other hand, the available anatomical data lead to 

 certain definite conclusions which are useful in shaping the 

 course of future physiological investigations. 



