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Adrenal Reserve

Meaning

The Adrenal Reserve clinically refers to the maximum capacity of the adrenal glands to synthesize and secrete glucocorticoids, primarily cortisol, in response to physiological stress. This reserve capacity is a critical indicator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis integrity and its ability to maintain homeostasis under duress. A robust reserve ensures the body can mount an appropriate hormonal stress response, essential for survival and metabolic regulation. Evaluating this reserve helps clinicians assess potential adrenal insufficiency or HPA axis dysfunction.