Tumors of the adrenal glands

What are adrenal gland tumors?

On top of each kidney are the adrenal glands. These glands are responsible for producing hormones that are essential for life, such as sex hormones and cortisol, which has several functions, such as helping to respond to stress.

The adrenal glands can be affected by a variety of problems, most notably tumors. These can be:

  • Benign tumors
  • Malignant tumors

Malignant tumors (rare) are cancerous. Fortunately, most tumors that occur are benign and generally do not cause symptoms and may not even need treatment. The types of tumors that can occur are:

  • Carcinoma of the adrenal cortex: cancer in the outer part of the gland.
  • Neuroblastoma: this cancer affects children.
  • Pheochromocytomas: rare tumor that is generally benign.

Prognosis of the disease

In the case of a malignant tumor, the severity will depend on how much the cancer has spread. The less the cancer has spread, the easier it will be for the specialist to treat and the less risky it will be for the patient.

Symptoms of adrenal gland tumors

Tumors of the adrenal glands can manifest themselves at any age, although it is more common in children under 5 years of age and in adults between 40 and 50 years of age.

As we have mentioned, benign tumors do not usually manifest symptoms, although they may secrete high levels of certain hormones, generating some complications. On the other hand, in malignant tumors we can detect some of the following symptoms:

  • Weight gain
  • Increase of fat in the neck and shoulders.
  • Additional hair growth in some parts of the body
  • Weak bones
  • In women, irregular menstrual periods
  • High blood sugar
  • High blood pressure
  • Low potassium
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Medical tests for adrenal gland tumors

If any of the above symptoms are detected, the doctor will do a medical examination on the patient’s general health. From there, there are various tests that can be performed, among which we find:

  • Blood and urine tests: for more information about the patient’s general health.
  • Biopsy: removing a piece of tissue in the area that appears to have cancer to see if cancer cells are detected.
  • Computerized axial tomography
  • Ultrasound
  • Magnetic resonance imaging

What causes adrenal gland tumors?

The exact causes of these tumors are unknown. The most important thing is to have regular check-ups with the doctor and see a specialist at the first symptoms. If detected early, treatment is much simpler and prevents the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

Can it be prevented?

The exact causes of these tumors are unknown. The most important thing is to have regular check-ups with the doctor and to see a specialist at the first symptoms. If detected early, treatment is much simpler and prevents the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

Treatments for adrenal gland tumors

The treatment of these tumors is usually tailored to the individual patient and his or her progress, but most often surgery is performed to remove the tumor. Once removed, the operation is complemented by chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Treatment will depend on the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the chances that the treatment will be effective. The patient’s age will also be taken into account, as well as any health problems he or she may have. Finally, the patient will have the last word in assessing the possible side effects that accompany the treatment.

Which specialist treats it?

The doctor best suited to treat tumors in the adrenal glands is a specialist in Endocrinology.