American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Which hormone is associated with the zona fasciculata?

1. Dihydroepiandrosterone

2. Cortisol

3. Estradiol

4. Testosterone

The correct answer is: Cortisol

The zona fasciculata is a layer of the adrenal cortex primarily responsible for the production of glucocorticoids, with cortisol being the most significant hormone produced in this layer. Cortisol plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including metabolism, immune response regulation, and the body's response to stress. When secreted, cortisol helps to increase blood glucose levels, suppress inflammation, and regulate a variety of bodily functions. The association of cortisol with the zona fasciculata underscores its importance in maintaining homeostasis and responding to stress. While the other hormones listed may be produced by different regions of the adrenal gland or gonads, none are specifically linked to the zona fasciculata. Dihydroepiandrosterone is primarily produced in the zona reticularis, estradiol is associated with ovarian function, and testosterone is predominantly produced in the testes and, to a lesser extent, the adrenal glands. This distinction highlights why the identification of cortisol as the hormone linked with the zona fasciculata is crucial for understanding adrenal function and hormonal regulation.