The two small glands that are on top of the kidneys are called the adrenal glands. The glands work together with the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands to produce hormones that are responsible for a variety of body functions. Tumors can develop on the adrenal glands, causing various symptoms.
Facts
Adrenal gland tumors might not cause symptoms at first, but as the tumor grows, excess hormone production will begin. Two of the major types of hormones produced by the adrenal glands are catecholamines and corticosteroids. The increase in different hormones is what leads to many symptoms. In part, the symptoms that occur are related to which hormone is produced in excess.
Types
The adrenal gland is divided into two main areas. Both areas can develop tumors. Tumors in the adrenal medulla cause the production of catecholamines, such as epinephrine. Symptoms of this type of tumor might include chest pain, dizziness, shaking and high blood pressure. Tumors in the adrenal cortex cause an increased production of corticosteroids, such as cortisol. This can cause mood changes, weight gain, water retention and increased body hair. In addition to symptoms related to excess hormone production, general symptoms of a tumor include abdominal pain, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Considerations
Because hormones might be released into the bloodstream only intermittently and hormone levels are not constant, some symptoms might come and go. For example, if epinephrine is produced and an increase in heart rate and high blood pressure develop, symptoms might subside as the hormone level decreases in the bloodstream. It's impossible to predict when or to what extent hormone levels are released into the bloodstream and when symptoms will increase.
Diagnosis
Because some symptoms of an adrenal tumor are similar to those of other conditions, such as heart problems, a doctor must make a correct diagnosis. After a physician evaluates the symptoms, blood tests might be ordered to detect higher-than-normal levels of hormones, such as epinephrine. A CT scan or an MRI might be done to view the kidneys and look for tumors on the adrenal glands.
Treatments
If an adrenal gland tumor is causing symptoms, even if it is benign, treatment might be needed. Because one of the symptoms is high blood pressure, medication is often given to help lower your blood pressure. Beta blockers might also be prescribed to help regulate your heart rate. Surgery to remove the tumors might be needed if medication does not relieve symptoms. Adrenal tumors that are cancerous might require additional treatment to ease symptoms, such as radiation and chemotherapy.
Tags: adrenal glands, blood pressure, high blood, high blood pressure, excess hormone, excess hormone production