What is a functioning adrenal tumor?

Adrenal tumors that produce hormones are called “functional” adrenal tumors. That means they are functional as intended to produce hormones–but they just produce too much of the hormone. It is important to understand that most functional adrenal tumors are benign (non-cancerous).

Can you feel an adrenal tumor?

Symptoms caused by a large adrenal cancer pressing on nearby organs. As an adrenal cancer grows, it presses on nearby organs and tissues. This may cause pain near the tumor, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, or trouble eating because of a feeling of filling up easily.

How do you get rid of adrenal tumors?

Most adrenal tumors are noncancerous (benign). You may need surgery (adrenalectomy) to remove an adrenal gland if the tumor is producing excess hormones or is large in size (more than 2 inches or 4 to 5 centimeters). If you have a cancerous tumor, you also may need an adrenalectomy.

Can a CT scan detect adrenal tumor?

The CT scan (also called CAT scan) is very accurate at examining the adrenal glands and other abdominal structures and can be used on any type of adrenal tumor.

How to diagnose adrenal tumor?

Blood and Urine Tests. Doctors may use blood or urine tests to check for abnormal levels of hormones in the body,which may be produced by adrenal tumors.

What is the prognosis for adrenal gland cancer?

If the cancer is diagnosed and treated before it has spread outside the adrenal gland, the 5-year survival rate is 65%. In the past, approximately 30% of adrenocortical cancers were diagnosed at this stage.

How is an adrenal tumor diagnosed?

Several tests are needed to make an adrenal tumor diagnosis. The process typically starts with one or more imaging scans, which allow a radiologist to look for signs of a tumor. From there, if a tumor is detected, additional lab tests can be performed to determine whether the tumor cells are malignant or benign.

What are the stages of adrenal cancer?

The adrenal cancer stages range from stages I (1) through IV (4). As a rule, the lower the number, the less the cancer has spread. A higher number, such as stage IV, means a more advanced cancer. Cancers with similar stages tend to have a similar outlook and are often treated in much the same way.