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

The adrenal reticularis is the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex and is primarily responsible for the production of androgens, which are steroid hormones that play a role in the development of male characteristics and influence various bodily functions. The principal androgens produced in this layer include dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione. While other layers of the adrenal cortex are involved in producing hormones like aldosterone and cortisol, it is the adrenal reticularis that is specifically tasked with androgen synthesis. Androgens have a variety of effects, including contributing to libido and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.