Adrenal tumors are masses that develop in the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys and regulate the body’s hormonal balance. These tumors can be benign (adenoma) or, in some cases, malignant (cancer).
Hormone-producing tumors in particular can cause pronounced and sometimes sudden-onset complaints in the body. For this reason, early diagnosis and accurate treatment planning are of great importance.
Symptoms
- Uncontrollable high blood pressure
- Sudden weight gain or weight loss
- Muscle weakness
- Excessive sweating and palpitations
- Skin changes related to hormonal balance
- Pain in the abdomen or flank area
- A completely asymptomatic course in some patients (incidental detection)
Clinical Features
- Hormone-secreting (functional) tumors cause symptoms
- Non-hormone-secreting tumors are usually detected incidentally
- Some tumors can lead to serious metabolic and cardiovascular problems
Diagnostic Methods
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Magnetic Resonance (MRI)
- Detailed hormone tests (cortisol, aldosterone, catecholamines, etc.)
- Advanced endocrinological evaluation when necessary
Treatment Approach (Surgery at the Forefront)
In adrenal tumors, the treatment decision is determined according to the size of the tumor, whether it produces hormones, and the suspicion of malignancy. However, in many cases surgical treatment is the most effective and permanent solution.
Surgical Treatment (Gold Standard)
- Removal of the adrenal gland together with the tumor (adrenalectomy)
- The primary treatment for hormone-producing tumors
- A mandatory approach for large or suspicious masses
With surgery, both the tumor is removed and the source causing the hormonal imbalance is eliminated.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Laparoscopic adrenalectomy
- Robotic surgery techniques
Thanks to these methods, the following are achieved:
- Smaller incisions
- Less pain
- Faster recovery
- Shorter hospital stay
Medical Treatment
- Medications that regulate hormonal balance
- Preparation before surgery or supportive treatment in patients not suitable for surgery
Clinical Evaluation
- Treatment success is high with early diagnosis
- Hormone-producing tumors cause symptoms earlier
- Hormonal balance usually improves after surgery
- A multidisciplinary approach is required for malignant tumors
Frequently Asked Questions
Are adrenal gland tumors dangerous?
Yes. Hormone-producing tumors in particular can lead to serious blood pressure and metabolic problems.
Is every adrenal tumor operated on?
No. Some small, non-hormone-producing masses can be monitored. However, in many cases surgery is the most appropriate option.
Do hormones improve after surgery?
Yes. When a hormone-producing tumor is removed, hormonal balance returns to normal in most patients.
Is robotic surgery advantageous?
Yes. It offers the advantage of more precise surgery and faster recovery.
Does an adrenal tumor turn into cancer?
Some tumors can be malignant from the outset. For this reason, accurate evaluation is very important.
What is life like after surgery?
Patients usually return to their normal lives. In some cases, temporary hormone support may be required.
Clinical Summary
Adrenal tumors are important diseases that can affect hormonal balance. The basis of treatment is often surgery (adrenalectomy). Today, thanks to minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques, patients undergo a more comfortable and safe treatment process.
