Adrenal Tumors: Do They Require Treatment?

Q: Adrenal Tumors: Do They Require Treatment?

Hello： If there is an adrenal adenoma and the physician does not recommend treatment, it is mostly because the report indicates it is benign. <br>However, if possible, it is still advisable to schedule an appointment at a medical center for further evaluation, as it is safer. <br

Adrenal gland issues

In early April, I experienced pain on both sides of my lower abdomen.
A CT scan at the hospital showed no abnormalities.
In June, I underwent another CT scan, which unexpectedly revealed an adrenal adenoma.
The doctor only mentioned that the size of the tumor was the same as in the previous CT scan, but did not explain why it was not mentioned last time.
There was also no discussion about whether the adrenal adenoma requires treatment.
Therefore, I would like to know if the adrenal adenoma is of no concern and does not need treatment.

Chen Dong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/21

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If there is an adrenal adenoma and the physician does not recommend treatment, it is mostly because the report indicates it is benign.
However, if possible, it is still advisable to schedule an appointment at a medical center for further evaluation, as it is safer.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/06/21

More Info

Adrenal tumors, particularly adrenal adenomas, are a common incidental finding during imaging studies such as CT scans. The management of these tumors largely depends on their characteristics, including size, hormonal activity, and the presence of symptoms.
In your case, the adrenal tumor was discovered incidentally during a CT scan, and the doctor noted that its size remained unchanged since the previous scan. This is an important factor because stable tumors that do not exhibit growth over time are often monitored rather than treated. The general guideline for adrenal adenomas is as follows:
1. Size: Tumors smaller than 4 cm that are non-functional (not producing hormones) typically do not require surgical intervention. If the tumor is larger than 4 cm, further evaluation is warranted to rule out malignancy.

2. Hormonal Activity: Functional adrenal tumors, such as those producing cortisol (Cushing's syndrome), aldosterone (Conn's syndrome), or catecholamines (pheochromocytoma), may require treatment regardless of size. If your tumor is found to be non-functional and smaller than 4 cm, it is likely that your doctor may recommend a watchful waiting approach.

3. Symptoms: If the tumor is causing symptoms, such as abdominal pain, hypertension, or other hormonal imbalances, treatment may be necessary.
4. Follow-Up: Regular follow-up imaging (usually every 6-12 months) is recommended to monitor for any changes in size or characteristics of the tumor.

In your situation, since the doctor did not express concern about the tumor and indicated that it has not changed in size, it is likely that they consider it benign and stable. However, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the tumor's nature and to ensure that you are being monitored appropriately. If you have any concerns or if symptoms arise, it is crucial to communicate with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, adrenal tumors, particularly adenomas, often do not require immediate treatment if they are small, non-functional, and stable. Regular monitoring is typically the best course of action unless there are changes in size or symptoms that warrant intervention. Always feel free to ask your healthcare provider for clarification on your specific case, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the characteristics of the tumor.

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