Adrenal Tumor Symptoms

The adrenal glands are endocrine glands which are located on top of each kidney. The main adrenal gland function of these orange-colored, triangular glands, of the endocrine system is the production of hormones. The main hormone produced by the adrenal glands is adrenaline, which comprises two other hormones - epinephrine and norepinephrine. Other hormones secreted by the adrenal glands are aldosterone catecholamines, estrogen and testosterone. These hormones are essential for the proper functioning of the entire human body system. At times there may be some adrenal problems which may lead to the over production of hormones. This excess hormone secretion can result in the formation of adrenal tumors, which are caused due to the abnormal growth of the cells in the glands. Adrenal tumors, also known as adrenal adenoma, can be formed on the medulla (inner layer or core) as well as on the cortex (outer layer). The presence of tumors can be exhibited through symptoms

Adrenal Gland Tumor Symptoms

As mentioned earlier, an adrenal gland tumor is caused when the adrenal glands over function resulting in excess secretion of hormones. This higher level of hormones trigger the rapid, but abnormal growth of the adrenal cells. In the initial stages, the symptoms are generally not exhibited. Only when excess hormone is produced, do the symptoms come to light. However, some of the symptoms may not be for a longer period of time, since the hormonal levels in the blood keep fluctuating.

• An increased level of hormones in the bloodstream can result in high blood pressure, heart palpitations, anxiety and nervousness etc. This condition is known as pheochromocytoma. There is also a considerable drop in the level of potassium in the body leading to hypokalemia.
• The individual may have a feeling of fullness or bloating sensation even on an empty stomach due to an enlarged adrenal gland. This feeling of bloating may be accompanied by severe pain in the abdominal region, which may radiate towards the back and thighs.
• The individual may also suffer from Conn's syndrome and Cushing's syndrome, where, symptoms like excessive thirst, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), uncontrolled growth of acne etc. can be observed.
• High grade fever, headaches, unexplained weight loss, diabetes etc. are also some of the adrenal gland disorders symptoms.

Adrenal Tumor Treatment

A failure to undergo timely diagnosis of adrenal tumor symptoms can lead to adrenal gland cancer, which can be life-threatening. For adrenal tumor diagnosis, the doctor may conduct a battery of tests to evaluate the exact condition of the patient. Blood tests may be required to detect the exact levels of hormones in the blood. An MRI or CT scan may also be advised for an in-depth examination of the kidneys and the adrenal tumors. A biopsy of the tumors may also be taken to check whether the tumor is benign or malignant in nature. Once all the diagnostic tests are conducted, the doctor may proceed to administering treatment. Symptomatic treatment to control the symptoms may be administered. Medication to control the function for an overactive adrenal gland may also be prescribed. In some cases, the individual may have to undergo surgery to remove the adrenal tumors. In case, the tumors show malignancy, then chemotherapy and radiation therapy may have to be done to destroy the cancerous cells and inhibit their metastasis.

Going for a routine check up to the doctor can help prevent the occurrence of any serious adrenal gland disorders and also keep unnecessary complications at bay. Wish you good health and take care!