When working as they should, your adrenal glands help produce hormones. But an adrenal tumor can get in the way and disrupt normal activity.
What you should know about Adrenal Tumors
Located just above the kidneys, your adrenal glands are small endocrine organs. They are essential to the production of hormones throughout your body. Adrenal tumors can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer), both of which can change normal hormonal regulation.
Symptoms of Adrenal Tumor
- Abnormal electrolyte levels
- Anxiety or depression
- Bruise easily
- Elevated blood sugars
- Fat deposits on the trunk or neck
- Increased hair growth
- Headaches
- Heart palpitations
- High blood pressure
- Osteoporosis
- Stretch marks in your midsection
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Weight gain or loss
Causes of an Adrenal Tumor
The cause of most adrenal tumors is unknown. But there are some hereditary conditions that have been associated with an increased risk.
Diagnosing Adrenal Tumors
What to know before your visit to the Advanced Urology Institute:
- During your visit, your doctor will ask you questions regarding your medical history and may perform an exam.
Other tests that may be performed during or after your visit:
- Blood work and urine testing
- CT scan or MRI of the abdomen to help identify the abnormality
Treating Adrenal Tumors
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Sometimes adrenal tumors can be observed with repeated imaging on a six-to-12-month basis or treated with medication.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
If one or more of following describes your adrenal tumor, surgery may be needed:
- Tumor is large
- Tumor alters your hormonal activity
- Tumor has a risk of becoming cancerous
The tumor should be removed by a urologic oncologist. Hormonal therapy may be required prior to surgery. An individualized surgical approach is recommended following discussion with your doctor.