Tumor of the Adrenal Gland
The adrenal gland is a part of the body's endocrine system. It is comprised of tiny organs located just above the kidneys. These organs are responsible for the excretion of hormones in conjunction with the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. Although the adrenal gland is considered one organ, it is actually made up of two distinct types of tissue that are responsible for different categories of hormones. When tumors grow on the adrenal gland, it causes these organs to overproduce respective hormones, causing disease.
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Adrenal Cortex
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The adrenal cortex is the organ responsible for many metabolism hormones and aldosterone, which is the steroid that gives male characteristics. When tumors are present, too many metabolism hormones cause diseases, such as Cushing's syndrome. People with Cushing's have problems with weight and high blood pressure.
Adrenal Medulla
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The adrenal medulla is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response. The body's response is through excretion of norepinephrine and epinephrine (noradrenaline and adrenaline). The hormones raise the heart rate, constrict blood vessels and lower unneeded activity like digestion, slowing the smooth muscle contractions in the intestines.
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Malignant Versus Benign
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Benign tumors indicate that the growth on the adrenal gland is not cancerous. A malignant tumor means the cells have the capability of metastasizing and spreading to other organs. Although cancerous tumors are more worrisome, both types of growth can press on the adrenal glands, causing them to excrete more hormone than necessary. A biopsy is performed to evaluate the condition of the tumor to determine if it is malignant or benign.
Diagnosis
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Some adrenal tumors are found as a part of tests performed for other reasons. A patient may undergo a CT scan for other conditions, and the doctor finds an indication on the results that suggest swelling. An abnormally large adrenal gland on test results may indicate tumor growth. Diagnosis is also conducted through symptoms. Some symptoms like high blood pressure or weight problems indicate a possible adrenal gland tumor.
Treatment
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If the tumor is small, benign and produces no symptoms, the doctor may agree that surgery is not necessary. The physician will schedule a followup appointment to monitor any future growth. If the tumor is too large or cancerous, the doctor will prescribe surgery to remove the growth. The surgery is usually conducted laparoscopically unless the growth is shown as cancerous.
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