Adrenal Tumors

Adrenal Tumor Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Adrenal tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the adrenal glands, located just above the kidneys. These glands are responsible for producing hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone, which regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, blood pressure, and stress response. Tumors in these glands can affect hormone production and lead to serious health complications. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we provide expert care for adrenal tumors, with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and advanced treatment options. Our team is led by the best oncologist in Dubai, ensuring comprehensive care for patients with adrenal tumors.

About Adrenal Tumors

Adrenal tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The most common types of adrenal tumors include:

• Adenomas: These are benign tumors that do not usually produce symptoms. However, in some cases, they can cause hormone imbalances.
• Adrenal Cortical Carcinomas: These are rare but malignant tumors that affect the outer layer of the adrenal gland and often spread to other organs if not treated early.
• Pheochromocytomas: These tumors arise from the adrenal medulla and typically produce excess adrenaline, leading to high blood pressure and other symptoms.

Though many adrenal tumors are benign and asymptomatic, some can lead to hormone overproduction, causing a variety of health issues. Early detection and treatment are essential to manage adrenal tumors effectively.

Causes & Symptoms

The exact cause of adrenal tumors is not always known, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing these growths. Some causes and risk factors include:

• Genetic Predisposition: Conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN), and Lynch syndrome increase the risk of adrenal tumors.
• Family History: A family history of adrenal tumors or other endocrine disorders can increase an individual’s risk.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Certain tumors may develop due to abnormalities in hormone production or regulation.

Symptoms of adrenal tumors vary depending on whether the tumor is producing hormones or causing physical changes in the adrenal glands. Some common symptoms include:

• High Blood Pressure: Often seen in pheochromocytomas due to excess adrenaline production.
• Weight Gain: Sudden, unexplained weight gain can be a sign of adrenal tumors that produce excess cortisol (Cushing’s syndrome).
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness may result from hormonal imbalances caused by adrenal tumors.
• Muscle Weakness: Hormonal imbalances can lead to decreased muscle strength.
• Anxiety and Palpitations: Excess adrenaline production from a pheochromocytoma can cause anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and other stress-related symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing adrenal tumors involves a series of tests to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant and whether it is affecting hormone production. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we use advanced diagnostic techniques such as:

• Blood and Urine Tests: These are performed to measure hormone levels and detect abnormalities related to adrenal gland function.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans help visualize the adrenal glands and identify the size, location, and type of tumor.
• Adrenal Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be conducted to determine whether the tumor is cancerous.

Early diagnosis is crucial for managing adrenal tumors effectively and preventing complications caused by hormonal imbalances.

Treatment

The treatment plan for adrenal tumors depends on the type, size, and whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: For benign tumors that are causing symptoms or for malignant tumors, surgery is often recommended to remove the tumor. This may involve partial or total removal of the adrenal gland (adrenalectomy).
• Hormone Therapy: In cases where the tumor is producing excess hormones, hormone-blocking medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and restore hormonal balance.
• Radiation Therapy: For malignant tumors that cannot be fully removed by surgery, radiation therapy may be used to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: In advanced cases of adrenal cortical carcinoma, chemotherapy may be used to slow the progression of the disease.

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our oncologists and endocrine specialists collaborate to provide individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition. With the best oncologist in Dubai, we ensure the highest quality of care for adrenal tumor patients.