Benign adrenal tumors

Overview

Benign adrenal tumors are noncancerous masses that form in the adrenal glands. Adrenal glands are located just above your kidneys. As part of your endocrine system, they produce hormones that give instructions to virtually every organ and tissue in your body. Benign adrenal tumors are also called adrenal adenomas.

Most benign adrenal tumors cause no symptoms and don't require treatment. But sometimes benign adrenal tumors can secrete high levels of certain hormones that can cause complications. In these cases, treatment for benign adrenal tumors may include surgery or medications.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for benign adrenal tumors

• Individualized care. Mayo Clinic's experienced endocrinologists will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs.
• Latest diagnostic tools. Mayo Clinic radiologists use the latest imaging technology to help distinguish benign adrenal tumors from cancerous tumors. Advanced imaging techniques include computerized tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) and metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scanning.
• Experience. Diagnosing benign adrenal tumors also involves skilled endocrinologists who have experience diagnosing all types of endocrine conditions using state-of-the-art testing. Tests may include hormone suppression and stimulation procedures done at the Endocrine Testing Center. Diagnosis may also include adrenal venous sampling, performed by skilled radiologists with experience using this procedure to diagnose certain hormonally active tumors.
• Minimally invasive surgery techniques. Surgeons at Mayo Clinic have extensive experience performing surgical procedures to remove tumors in the adrenal gland. An adrenalectomy is a procedure often performed to remove a benign adrenal tumor. In many cases, this procedure can be performed as a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which doesn't require a large incision, causes less pain and allows for a quicker recovery.
• Team approach. Mayo Clinic's multispecialty practice makes it easy for Mayo doctors to consult with specialists in other areas, allowing you quick access to comprehensive care.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for diabetes and endocrinology in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., is ranked high performing for diabetes and endocrinology by U.S. News & World Report.

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