Adrenal Gland Tumor

Adrenal Gland:

Our body comprises a number of intricate systems and organ functions that are interdependent. The respiratory system, digestive system, excretory system and nervous system are some of them. The adrenal glands are yellowish-orange colored glands, located just above the kidneys, and play a very important role in helping the physical body to deal with stress. These glands are also referred to as suprarenal (supra-above, renes-kidneys) glands. They are endocrine glands that are star-shaped. Functions of adrenal glands include the release of hormones that are responsible for the synthesis of catecholamines and corticosteroids.

The position of the adrenal glands in the abdomen thoracic region adds to their anterosuperior aspect. Each adrenal gland comprises adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla, two distinct structures that receive input from the body's nervous system. The adrenal cortex is the outer part that produces steroid hormones. This part is responsible for the regulation of a number of body functions and that of the body's salt and water balance. The adrenal medulla is the inner portion that produces adrenaline and noradrenaline hormones. These hormones play an important role in the body's response to acute stress, like in the case of some life-threatening situation. These hormones generate responses such as palpitations, perspiration and trembling of hands.

Adrenal Tumors:

Adrenal tumors are the result of an imbalance of the hormone secretion within the cortex or the medulla of the adrenal gland. The excess secretion of hormones trigger the formation of a tumor that in turn triggers the production of excess steroid hormones, aldosterone and catecholamines. Adrenal tumors could be benign or non-cancerous or even malignant, depending on the trigger factor and the lapse in initial diagnosis. Adrenal tumors can be detected via CT scan for the evaluation of the abdominal region and extent of swelling. The tumors also manifest through a series of related signs and symptoms. Adrenal tumors are known to produce steroids that trigger the development of Cushing’s syndrome, aldosterone that culminates in Conn’s syndrome and catecholamines that produce a pheochromocytoma.

Symptoms of Adrenal Gland Tumors:

Adrenal gland tumors manifest in the form of the following signs and symptoms:

• High blood pressure.
• Diabetes.
• Low potassium level.
• Palpitations.
• Over-nervousness.
• Panic attacks.
• Headache.
• Excessive perspiration.
• Weakness and adrenal fatigue.
• Abdominal pain.
• Unexplained weight gain or loss.

Benign Adrenal Gland Tumors:

Benign adrenal gland tumors, observed via CT scan, can be treated with the help of laparoscopic adrenalectomy, open adrenalectomy or laparoscopic removal of both glands. An adrenal gland tumor typically forms when cells in the region grow uncontrollably and form an abnormal mass. These tumors sometimes produce hormones in excess. Such tumors are referred to as functioning tumors. Adrenal problems such as adrenal tumors can either develop within the adrenal gland or in some other organ and then metastasize or spread. The different types of adrenal gland tumors are categorized as adenoma, adrenocortical carcinoma, neuroblastoma and pheochromocytoma. Of these, the adenoma tumors are benign. In fact, the tumors in this category make up for over 95% of all adrenal gland tumors. The tumors are noncancerous and non-functioning in nature. They form in the adrenal cortex region of the adrenal gland. They do not trigger the onslaught of any serious symptoms and generally do not even call for treatment.