Which glands are located on top of the kidneys?

The adrenal glands are the glands located on top of the kidneys. They play a crucial role in the endocrine system by producing hormones that help regulate metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, and stress response, among other functions. Positioned atop each kidney, they consist of two main parts: the adrenal cortex, which produces steroid hormones like cortisol and aldosterone, and the adrenal medulla, which produces adrenaline and norepinephrine.

The other options represent glands that are located in different parts of the body: the thyroid gland is found in the neck, the pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain, and the pancreas is found in the abdominal cavity. Each of these glands serves distinct and vital functions but is not associated with the kidneys.