One of the first aspects of adrenal adenoma that should be appreciated is that by its nature, the effects of this condition can be systemic as opposed to merely localised. This is primarily due to the fact that it can affect hormone levels throughout the body. These levels can modify certain metabolic processes as well as cause additional illnesses. For the sake of brevity as well as due to the fact that certain diseases will naturally be more prevalent than others, it is wise to take a look at the most common illness that is a result of adrenal adenoma. This condition is called Cushing's Syndrome.
One of the defining factors that is a result of adrenal adenoma is the over-production of certain hormones. Simply stated, Cushing's Syndrome is a direct result of too much of a substance known as a glucocorticoid throughout the body. While the name of this hormone may appear quite confusing, it is important to appreciate the numerous regulatory processes that it will have on the body. Some of this hormone's main functions include:
In addition, cortisol can also have an effect on mental conditions; too much can result in varying levels of stress and anxiety. So, it only stands to reason that a surplus of this hormone due to adrenal adenoma will have a number of pronounced effects that will manifest themselves in both the short- and the long-term. Some of the most notable and potentially serious are:
It should be noted that Cushing's Syndrome can occur in cases of adrenal adenoma which are still benign. Conversely, a tumour that becomes malignant may exhibit these symptoms plus additional indicators that will be cancer-related.
The most serious concern (as with any cancer) is of the malignancy spreading to other organs of the abdomen or throughout the body. As the adrenal glands are located directly above the kidneys, there are chances that any tumour may, on occasion, spread to these organs. Still, it should be noted that the incidences of a malignant adrenal adenoma are extremely rare. It is far more common for Cushing's Disease to develop as a long-term effect of the over-production of the aforementioned glococortoid.
There are other illnesses that are also possible as a result of an adrenal adenoma such as Conn's Syndrome. This condition is a result of an excess of specific hormones causing high blood pressure and the possible growth of facial hair (in both men and women). Other symptoms will include tiredness and a low blood serum level of potassium.
Summarily, the predominant illness that is seen to be directly related to adrenal adenoma is Cushing's Disease and should a benign tumour exist for a long period of time (especially in older patients), the previously mentioned symptoms may very well manifest themselves. As with any such condition, it will take the professional diagnosis of a physician to determine their root case and to pursue the most relevant treatment options.