Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Adrenal Tumor

Okay, got a question.  I have an adrenal tumor which is still small but has doubled in size in 2 years.  I feel awful - intermittent tremors, adrenaline rush at times, general malaise, nausea, ridiculous unexplained weight gain of 9 pounds in 8 days.  Went to surgeon yesterday and he did bunches of blood work but he says it is unlikely that my symptoms are caused by this tumor.  I think it ought to come out if it's doubled in size, but he disagrees because it is only 2.8 cm.  Every member of my family has had some form of cancer and I don't see any point in waiting til the thing gets bigger.  Any input anyone?
6 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Okay, latest update.  Scheduled for surgery to remove my left adrenal gland this Wednesday.  All tests were positive indicating that the stupid tumor is indeed producing.  So it's coming out....  We'll see if it's benign after pathology.  Thanks for all the input.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Good luck for Tuesday
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thank you so much!  You have just confirmed exactly what I think too.  Yes, they are testing for Cushing's.  24 hour urine and bloodwork for metanephrine and numerous adrenal hormones.  I'm going to go see this doc on Tuesday but if he continues to jerk me around, I'm with you and will undoubtedly find another doctor.  Seems to me that, if it doubles in size again in 2 years, it will be WAY past the point that is considered dangerous so I see no logic in waiting until I am older, sicker and it is bigger.  Will let you know what happens Tuesday.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Are they testing you for Cushing's as well? Cortisol would cause the weight gain like that. I would find another doctor.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I have also been told that when a growth reaches 3cm then removal is justified.  If tests come back within normal ranges I would try putting this forward for reason enough for removal.

Also, if it is a Pheochromocytoma then tests may be normal if you are not having symptoms at the time they are done.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I have recently been diagnosed with an adrenal tumour.  I believed all my symptoms to be related but hormone tests have shown otherwise.  

What tests have you had done?  If you believe this to be a Pheochromocytoma then request a plasma free metanephrine blood test or if not 24hour urine collections to test for metanephrines (blood test is more accurate I have heard).  What are your blood pressure readings?  Do you have any other symptoms?

I also wanted my growth to be removed whether it functions or not, or grows quickly/slowly.  My opinion is if it's presence raises concerns enough to warrent further MRI scans periodically then surely the removel of it is justified.  I do not feel at ease with the knowledge that I have a growth that could one day cause me serious harm and it is being left there to develop.  



Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Adrenal Insufficiency Community

Top Thyroid Answerers
Avatar universal
MI
Avatar universal
Northern, NJ
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
We tapped the CDC for information on what you need to know about radiation exposure
Endocrinologist Mark Lupo, MD, answers 10 questions about thyroid disorders and how to treat them
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.