The HPA axis stress sequence
Which sequence correctly describes the hormonal stress response that releases cortisol?
Answer D: explanation for every choice
A
ACTH comes from the anterior pituitary, not the hypothalamus, and the adrenal medulla releases epinephrine, not cortisol.
B
CRH is released by the hypothalamus, which sits above the pituitary in the axis.
C
The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine. Cortisol comes from the cortex.
D
Correct. CRH from the hypothalamus triggers ACTH release from the anterior pituitary, which stimulates cortisol release from the adrenal cortex.
TakeawayHPA axis: CRH → ACTH → cortisol from the adrenal cortex.
Next question →
Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps113.