Adrenal Tumors
Adrenal tumors are abnormal growths that occur in the adrenal glands, crucial for producing hormones that manage metabolism, stress response, and blood pressure. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may lead to excessive hormone production, resulting in a range of health complications.
Causes of Adrenal Tumors
- Genetic Mutations Inherited syndromes such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) can predispose individuals.
- Hormonal Imbalance Overproduction of hormones may stimulate abnormal cell growth.
- Radiation Exposure Previous radiation treatments targeting the abdomen or chest.
- Family History A genetic predisposition to adrenal tumors may exist.
Recognising Symptoms of Adrenal Tumors
High Blood Pressure
Unexplained Weight Changes
Excessive Sweating
Irregular Heartbeat (Palpitations)
Anxiety
Skin Changes
Diagnosis of Adrenal Tumors
- Blood Tests – To assess levels of key hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline).
- Urine Tests – To identify excess hormone production.
- CT Scan or MRI – For detailed imaging of the adrenal glands.
- PET Scan – To differentiate between benign and malignant tumors.
- Adrenal Venous Sampling – To analyse hormone secretion from individual adrenal glands.
Top Treatments for Adrenal Tumors
The leading treatment for adrenal tumors, this procedure is recommended for larger or hormone-secreting tumors. Expert endocrine surgeons perform either a minimally invasive laparoscopic adrenalectomy or an open adrenalectomy, depending on tumor size and complexity, ensuring optimal recovery and reduced complications.
Used selectively for rare cases of adrenal cancer, advanced radiation techniques target malignant cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissues, improving treatment outcomes.
Essential when both adrenal glands are removed, this therapy maintains hormonal balance by replacing cortisol and other vital hormones, preventing adrenal insufficiency.
Outcomes of Specialised Adrenal Tumor Treatment
- Effective Tumor Removal – Resolves hormone-related symptoms and prevents complications.
- Optimised Hormonal Balance – Ensures stable metabolic function and well-being.
- Reduced Recurrence Risk – Expert-led surgical and radiation therapies lower the chance of tumor regrowth.
- Improved Quality of Life – Alleviates symptoms like high blood pressure, fatigue, and unexplained weight gain.
Complications of Untreated Adrenal Tumors
Untreated adrenal gland tumors can lead to a range of serious complications. Cushing's Syndrome, resulting from excess cortisol production, causes significant weight gain and elevated blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes and other metabolic disorders. Conn's Syndrome, characterised by high aldosterone levels, leads to hypertension and dangerously low potassium levels, posing a threat to cardiovascular health. Pheochromocytoma crisis, triggered by tumors producing excess adrenaline, can cause life-threatening hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias.
If malignant adrenal tumors are left untreated, they can metastasise, spreading to other parts of the body.
Managing Adrenal Tumors for a Healthy Life
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of adrenal tumors are vital in avoiding serious health risks. Regular check-ups, hormonal monitoring, and effective lifestyle choices are key to ensuring long-term health. If you notice unexplained symptoms like high blood pressure, weight fluctuations, or persistent fatigue, seek out a specialist for thorough evaluation and care. Don't wait; your health matters!