Adrenal tumors in children

Endocrine tumors of the adrenal glands in children and adolescents are a rare but serious disease. Their timely recognition and treatment in a specialized center significantly increase the chances of a successful outcome. Thanks to cooperation with leading pediatric workplaces, we offer comprehensive care based on the most modern diagnostic.

What Parents Should Know

Our center, in cooperation with the Clinic of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology at FN Motol and the Children's Clinic of the FN Olomouc, provides comprehensive care for children and adolescents with adrenal tumors. Although they are rare diseases, they can be serious and require the cooperation of experienced specialists.

What tumors occur in children?

The adrenal glands can be affected by several types of tumors in children. Among the most common are:

  • Neuroblastoma
    The most common solid (solid) tumor in children outside the brain region. Often manifested by changes in urine due to an increased level of certain substances.
  • Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma
    Tumors produce hormones called catecholamines, which can cause high blood pressure, palpitations or excessive sweating. These tumors are often hereditary.
  • Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC)
    A rare malignant tumor that can produce hormones such as cortisol or androgens. In children, it can be manifested, for example, by premature puberty or typical signs of Cushing's syndrome. ACC is sometimes hereditary (e.g. within Li-Fraumeni syndrome).

Not sure how to proceed?

Every health problem has its own context. If you are hesitant about what is best for you, arrange a consultation. Our doctors will walk you through the situation and recommend a course of action that makes sense — professionally, sensitively, without unnecessary stress.

Why is genetic testing important?

With these tumors, a hereditary cause is common. Therefore, genetic testing is recommended for each child, which can help to better understand the disease and choose the most appropriate treatment.

What can be the symptoms?

Symptoms depend on the type of tumor. For example, it can be high blood pressure, palpitations, sudden mood swings, signs of early adolescence or unusual changes in body appearance. Each type of tumor manifests itself a little differently.

How are tumors diagnosed?

  • Imaging methods
    Most often, we use CT (computed tomography) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), often with the administration of a contrast agent, to better see the extent of the tumor.
  • PET examination
    Some tumors are very active and “shine” on a special examination called FDG PET.
  • Biopsy
    Tumor sampling for microscopic examination is usually not performed for these types of tumors. The exception is very rare cases, for example, suspected lymphoma.

How is the treatment carried out?

Treatment depends on the specific type of tumor and the general condition of the child. The most common step is surgical removal of the tumor. In some cases, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiation therapy are also necessary.

Where to be treated?

Since these tumors are rare and often aggressive, the child should always be treated in a specialized center by experienced specialists who have practice with these diagnoses.

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