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Signs & Symptoms of an Adrenal Tumor

The two adrenal glands are part of the body's endocrine system. They are orange, triangular-shaped glands that are located directly on the top of the kidneys. These glands produce adrenaline, which consists of norepinephrine and epinephrine. They also produce aldosterone and cortisone. Tumors on the adrenal glands may result in the overproduction of adrenaline, resulting in a condition known as pheochromocytoma. Tumors can also cause an overproduction of cortisol, resulting in Cushing's syndrome.

  1. Symptoms of Pheochromocytoma

    • When a tumors form in the central part of the adrenal gland, pheochromocytoma may develop. Symptoms of this condition include headache, anxiety, excessive sweating, tremors, racing heartbeat, intolerance to heat, weight loss, lower chest or abdominal pain and nausea. Uncontrollable hypertension may also be a sign on pheochromocytoma.

    Diagnosis and Treatment

    • This condition can be diagnosed by analyzing 24 hours worth of urine samples to look for excess catacholamines and metanaphrines in the urine. Also, a blood test can be used to check for excess adrenaline chemicals in the blood. X-rays may be used to look for evidence of a tumor. The treatment for pheochromocytomas involves surgical removal of the tumors.

    Symptoms of Cushing's Disease

    • Cushing's syndrome occurs when a tumor causes the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include hypertension, osteoporosis, menstrual irregularity, glucose intolerance, kidney stones and obesity. Weight gain may accumulate mostly around the waste and on the upper back area. Other symptoms may include flushing of the face, fatigue, stretch marks, anxiety, depression and acne.

    Diagnosis and Treatment

    • Cushing's syndrome an be diagnosed by anayzing a 24-hour urine sample to determine how much cortisol is being excreted. Also, a CT scan or MRI may be used to look for tumors in the adrenal glands. Treatments for Cushing's syndrome include either removing the tumors or treating the tumors with radiation therapy.

    Other Conditions

    • Adrenogenital syndrome or precocious puberty may occur if a tumor causes the overproduction of sex hormones. Virilization may occur if a tumor causes the overproduction of testosterone in females. Feminization may occur if a tumor causes the overproduction of too much estrogen in males. Conn's syndrome may occur if a tumor causes the overproduction of aldosterone. Conn's disease is characterized by low potassium and high blood pressure.

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