Adrenal gland tumours, sometimes known simply as adrenal tumours, are growths that develop in one or both of your adrenal glands (a small triangular-shaped gland above each kidney). The adrenal glands play an important role in your body and are responsible for producing and releasing hormones for bodily functions such as metabolism, sexual development, stress responses, and more.
Adrenal tumours can either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they can either be functioning or non-functioning. Functioning adrenal tumours indicate that the tumour is producing hormones, while a non-functioning tumour indicates that the tumour is not producing any hormones.
Most adrenal tumours are benign but are still capable of producing one or more adrenal hormones, resulting in various symptoms.
These tumours occur when genetic changes occur in the adrenal cells, causing them to multiply uncontrollably, resulting in a growth or tumour. These genetic changes can turn on oncogenes – genes that help cells grow and divide or live longer, and turn off tumour suppressor genes – genes that reduce cell growth and tell cells when to die. Thus causing the overgrowth of cells.
However, it is still unclear as to what causes the DNA or genes of cells to malfunction. Several risk factors may contribute to this occurrence; these include being over the age of 40 with specific hereditary conditions such as Lynch syndrome, Carney complex, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN 1).
Symptoms usually depend on whether the tumour is functioning or non-functioning and, if the tumour is functioning, which hormone is being overproduced. General symptoms include:
It is important to remember that individuals with benign, non-functioning adrenal gland tumours may not experience any of the symptoms stated above.
If you suspect you have symptoms of an adrenal gland tumour or are concerned about your adrenal health, consult an endocrinologist for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Not all adrenal tumours are painful. Some adrenal tumours, especially those that overproduce hormones (active), can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, headaches, and discomfort. Additionally, large tumours may press on nearby organs, which can potentially cause pain and a feeling of fullness in your abdomen.
Generally, while adrenal gland tumours are rare, they can affect anyone, with some individuals having a higher predisposition than others. Risk factors include:
If you are experiencing symptoms of adrenal gland tumours or are concerned about your risk of developing it, make an appointment with ACE Specialist Surgery and Endoscopy to get proper medical assessments for early detection.
Several tests can be used to diagnose adrenal gland tumours. It is unlikely that all of the methods mentioned will be used for each individual as the following factors will be considered; these are:
Depending on certain factors, your endocrinologist may conduct one or more of the following tests:
Generally, if the adrenal gland tumour is small and benign, no treatment is required. However, regular follow-up and monitoring are recommended to check for any changes that may happen.
Treatment options for adrenal gland tumours can be one or a combination of the following:
If you are suffering from an adrenal gland disorder, have a family history of adrenal disorders, or are concerned about developing adrenal cancer, schedule an appointment with ACE Surgery and Endoscopy for a detailed examination and individualised treatment plan.
Generally, adrenal gland tumours are rare, and most of them are benign (non-cancerous), but they can occur in anyone.
It is recommended to remove functioning tumours, especially if they are causing hormonal imbalances or other health issues.
Adrenal gland tumours can potentially recur after treatment. You must go for regular health check-ups to monitor, detect, and address any recurrence or new developments immediately and effectively