Very rare adrenal tumors

In addition to more common adrenal tumors, very rare types can occur that require experienced specialists and a specialized facility. These tumors are often discovered incidentally during other examinations, such as a CT scan of the abdomen.

What symptoms can occur?

  • Abdominal or back pain
  • Sensation of pressure in the kidney area
  • Fatigue, nausea, weight loss
  • In some cases, a serious hormonal disorder — so-called adrenal insufficiency, especially if both adrenal glands are affected
Název nádoru Charakteristika
Myelolipom Benigní nádor složený z tukové a hematopoetické tkáně
Hemangiom Vzácný benigní cévní nádor, často bez klinických příznaků
Schwannom Benigní nádor pocházející z nervové tkáně
Ganglioneurom Benigní nádor autonomního nervového systému, často asymptomatický
Ewingův sarkom Vzácný maligní nádor kostního původu, může se vyskytovat v nadledvině
Liposarkom Zhoubný nádor tukové tkáně, možný výskyt v retroperitoneu včetně nadledvin
Leiomyosarkom Zhoubný nádor hladké svaloviny, může postihnout nadledviny
Primární adrenální lymfom Velmi vzácný agresivní maligní nádor, často s bilaterálním postižením

How is the tumor detected?

Most often using CT or magnetic resonance imaging. If it is necessary to determine the exact type of tumor, we use PET scanwhich shows how the tumor behaves metabolically. Sometimes a biopsy may also be necessary, i.e., tissue sampling — but only after excluding other types of tumors that could cause complications (e.g., pheochromocytoma).

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.

Can these tumors be treated?

Yes. Depending on the type of tumor and the patient's general state of health:

  • Surgery — the most common option if the tumor is localized.
  • Ablation — Destruction of the tumor without surgery, e.g. by heat or freezing.
  • Oncological treatment — chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiotherapy if the tumor is malignant or advanced.
  • If the adrenal glands stop working properly, it is possible to replace them with Hormone replacement therapy.

What should you watch out for?

Patients who have a history of other cancers should be particularly alert to symptoms such as:

  • Severe fatigue
  • Loss of appetite, nausea
  • Low blood pressure, darkening of the skin
  • Back or abdominal pain

If a tumor is present on both adrenal glands, the risk of hormonal imbalance is higher. Therefore, it is important to see a specialist in a timely manner.

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