The adrenal glands (also known as suprarenal glands) are the star-shaped endocrine glands that sit on top of the kidneys. Each gland consists of a medulla (the center of the gland) which is surrounded by the cortex. The medulla is responsible for producing epinephrine and norepinephrine (adrenaline). The adrenal cortex produces other hormones necessary for fluid and electrolyte (salt) balance in the body such as cortisone and aldosterone.

What diseases of the adrenal gland does a surgeon treat?

A surgeon typically treats tumors of the adrenal glands, both benign and malignant. A surgeon becomes involved in the care of adrenal tumors when they need to be excised (surgically removed).

What are the symptoms of an adrenal tumor?

Some adrenal tumors cause pain or tenderness of the flank area.

How are these diseases diagnosed?

Tumors of the adrenal glands are typically diagnosed by radiological tests, such as CT Scan and MRI. Blood tests are also helpful in the diagnostic process, and are used to measure the amounts of adrenal hormones in the circulatory system.

When is adrenal gland surgery necessary?

The indications for surgical removal of the adrenal gland are relatively straightforward. These include tumors of the adrenal cortex which overproduce hormones, tumors of the adrenal medulla which overproduce adrenaline, most solid tumors of the adrenal gland which are greater than 4 cm, primary cancers of the adrenal gland, and any size adrenal mass which causes symptoms such as flank pain or tenderness.