OVERVIEW
The adrenal glands are small endocrine organs located just above the kidney and are essential to hormonal production throughout the body. Tumors of the adrenal come in benign and malignant forms, both of which are capable of altering normal hormonal regulation.
Symptoms
You may experience the following common symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Elevated blood sugars or poorly controlled diabetes
- Easy bruising
- Weakness
- Altered electrolyte levels
- Excessive hair growth
- Sweating
- Weight gain or loss
- Stretch marks on the abdomen
- Depression, nervousness, anxiety or panic attacks
- Osteoporosis
- Fat deposits on the trunk or neck
- Heart palpitations
- Headaches
Causes
While the cause of most adrenal tumors is unknown, there are some hereditary conditions that have been associated with an increased incidence of developing adrenal growths.
Diagnosis/Evaluation
1) What to know before your visit:
- During your visit, your doctor will ask you questions regarding your medical history and will perform an exam.
2) Other tests that may be performed during or after your visit
- Labs and urine testing
- CT scan or MRI of the abdomen are used to better characterize the abnormality
Treatment
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Sometimes these tumors are able to be observed with repeat imaging on a six to 12 month basis.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
On the occasion that the adrenal tumor is large in size, alters appropriate hormonal activity, or has a risk of malignancy (cancer), it should then be removed by a urologic oncologist. Hormonal therapy is usually required prior to surgery. An individualized surgical approach can be discussed with your doctor, and performed in a robotic, laparoscopic or open fashion.
Schedule an appointment with a MidLantic Urology physician near you today!