The adrenal glands are two small organs located at the top of each kidney. They are triangular in shape and are about two inches in size.
The adrenal glands have several layers. Each layer produces different hormones needed by the body. These hormones affect blood pressure, glucose and stress levels, and the “fight or flight” reaction. These hormones include steroids and adrenaline, as well as:
- Aldosterone: Maintains a normal blood pressure and regulates salt.
- Cortisol: Effects blood sugar levels, metabolism, and stress.
- Sex Hormones: The adrenal gland produces sex hormones, such as estrogens and testosterone.
- Catecholamines: Also known as adrenaline, these hormones respond very quickly to stress in your body and mediate the “fight or flight” reaction.
The most common reason for adrenal gland surgery is excess hormone production by a tumor located within the gland. Most tumors are small, benign growths that can be removed with minimally invasive, laparoscopic techniques. Adrenal gland removal may also be necessary for some tumors that don’t produce excess hormones, such as very large tumors or tumors suspected of being cancerous. Cancerous (malignant) adrenal tumors are rare. When they do occur, they are considered either “functioning” or “nonfunctioning.” Specialists in endocrine surgery at Washington University can work with you to find the best solution for your adrenal gland conditions.
Conditions
Aldosterone-producing Adenoma
An aldosteronoma, or a Conn’s tumor, is a benign tumor that makes too much of the hormone aldosterone and causes very high blood pressure and low potassium. These tumors are treated by surgery.
Cushing’s Syndrome
This condition is caused by too much cortisol in the body and can result in diabetes, weight gain, skin changes, and other metabolic problems. Cushing’s syndrome can be caused by adrenal tumors or overgrowth of the adrenal glands called hyperplasia. Cushing’s syndrome caused by adrenal tumors is treated with surgery.
Pheochromocytoma
Pheochromocytoma are tumors that form in the adrenal medulla, which is the center part of the gland. Pheochromocytomas make too much adrenaline and causes patients to have very high blood pressure, frequent sweating, anxiety, and headaches. These tumors can be associated with inheritable syndromes and are treated with surgery.
Adrenal gland cancer
Adrenal cancer, also known as Adrenocortical carcinoma, is a rare cancer in which cancer cells form in the outer layer of the adrenal gland. Adrenal cancer is treated with surgery.