Adenoma of the adrenal gland

What causes adenomas of the adrenal gland?

The exact underlying cause of most adrenal adenomas is unknown. They sometimes occur in people with certain genetic syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN1) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). In these cases, affected people usually have multiple adenomas and other characteristic features of the condition that are all caused by changes (mutations) in a gene. MEN1 is caused by mutations in the MEN1 gene, while FAP is caused by mutations in the APC gene.

Last updated on 05-01-20

Is genetic testing available for adenomas of the adrenal gland?

Genetic testing is not available for many people with adrenal adenomas since most of these tumors occur sporadically (by chance) and are not caused by a genetic mutation.

However, genetic testing is an option for people with an inherited condition that predisposes to adrenal adenomas such as multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN1) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Carrier testing for at-risk relatives and prenatal testing are possible if the disease-causing mutation in the family is known.

The Genetic Testing Registry (GTR) is a centralized online resource for information about genetic tests. It provides a list of laboratories performing genetic testing for MEN1 and FAP. The intended audience for the GTR is health care providers and researchers. Patients and consumers with specific questions about a genetic test should contact a health care provider or a genetics professional.

Last updated on 05-01-20

How are adenomas of the adrenal gland diagnosed?

In addition to a complete physical exam and medical history, the following imaging tests are usually necessary to diagnose an adenoma of the adrenal gland: computed tomography (CT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan), and/or positron emission tomography (PET scan). Some people may also need a biopsy of the tumor to confirm the diagnosis. Laboratory tests that evaluate the levels of certain hormones in the blood or urine can be used to determine if the adrenal adenoma is functional or nonfunctional.

Last updated on 05-01-20

Are adenomas of the adrenal glands inherited?

Most adrenal adenomas are not inherited. They usually occur sporadically in people with no family history of tumors. However, in rare cases, they can occur in people with certain genetic syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN1) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Both of these conditions are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.

Last updated on 05-01-20

Should I see an endocrinologist to address the finding of a growth on the adrenal gland?

When a growth on the adrenal gland is found by imaging such as a CT scan, additional testing may help to determine precisely what the growth is. Additional testing may include blood and/or urine testing to check the levels of hormones such as catecholamines, metanephrines, cortisol, or others. Because endocrinologists specialize in the diagnosis and management of conditions that affect glands (hormone-producing organs), they can facilitate testing related to a growth on the adrenal gland, interpret the results, and determine whether additional follow-up is needed.

Last updated on 05-01-20

How might an adenoma of the adrenal gland affect testosterone levels?

Adrenal tumors that secrete testosterone are rare, but they have been reported in the literature. An adrenal gland that produces excess androgens (testosterone and similar hormones) can cause virilization, which is the development of exaggerated male characteristics. Signs and symptoms of virilization may include excess facial and body hair (hirsutism); baldness; acne; deepening of the voice; increased muscularity; and an increased sex drive. In women it can cause menstruation to stop (amenorrhea). In young boys, increased testosterone secretion can cause precocious puberty (when puberty happens earlier than normal).

Last updated on 05-01-20

What is the long-term outlook for people with adenomas of the adrenal gland?

The long-term outlook for people with adenomas of the adrenal gland is usually excellent. Although adrenal adenomas that are functional (releasing hormones) can cause other medical problems such as primary aldosteronism and Cushing's syndrome, these conditions usually respond well to treatment with medications and/or surgery. Nonfunctional adrenal adenomas typically do not cause any problems and rarely require treatment.

Last updated on 05-01-20

How might adenomas of the adrenal gland be treated?

The best treatment options for adenomas of the adrenal gland depend on many factors, including whether or not the adenoma is "functional" (releasing hormones). People with adrenal adenomas that are not releasing hormones usually do not require any immediate treatment; however, they may need to follow up with a healthcare provider regularly to determine if the adenoma has grown and to make sure that it does not start producing hormones.

Functional adrenal adenomas are typically treated with surgery. Removal of the affected adrenal gland usually resolves other medical conditions that may be present as a result of elevated adrenal hormones (i.e. primary aldosteronism, Cushing's syndrome). In some cases, functional adrenal adenomas can be treated with medications that block the function or lower the levels of the overproduced hormone.

Last updated on 05-01-20

Name: Urology Care Foundation 1000 Corporate Boulevard
Linthicum, MD, 21090, United States
Phone: 410–689–3700 Toll Free: 1–800–828–7866 Fax : 410-689-3998 Email: info@urologycarefoundation.org Url: http://www.urologyhealth.org/index.cfm

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