Tumors of the Adrenal Glands

Abstract

Benign tumors of the adrenal cortex are frequently discovered as incidental findings during autopsy, indicating the asymptomatic nature of these tumors. Histologically, these benign tumors are adenomas, and although they are more often nonsecretory, they can potentially secrete hormones. When they do, a variety of hypersecretory syndromes result, depending on the site of origin of these adenomas. Thus, adenomas arising from the cells of zona glomerulosa secrete aldosterone, resulting in the clinical syndrome of primary aldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome, Section 28.2). Adenomas that arise from cells of the zona fasciculata secrete glucocorticoids, resulting in the familiar expression of Cushing’s syndrome (Section 28.3). Rarely, adenomas from the zona reticularis secrete androgens, resulting in hirsutism and even virilization. Adenomas arising from the adrenal medulla secrete catecholamines, resulting in the clinical expression of pheochromocytoma (Section 31.2). Benign, nonsecretory adenomas are seldom detected because of their asymptomatic nature. Benign, hypersecretory adenomas are treated by surgical removal of the tumor or the entire adrenal gland harboring the tumor.