Functional Adrenal Tumors

Functional adrenal tumors are adrenal gland growths that produce excess hormones, leading to a variety of symptoms depending on the type of hormone overproduced. Unlike nonfunctional adrenal tumors, which often cause no symptoms and are detected incidentally, functional tumors can significantly impact metabolism, blood pressure, and overall health.

Types of Functional Adrenal Tumors

1. Cortisol-Producing Tumors (Cushing’s Syndrome)
   • These tumors produce excess cortisol, a hormone that regulates stress, metabolism, and immune response.
   • Symptoms may include:
     • Weight gain, especially around the abdomen and face
     • High blood pressure
     • Muscle weakness
     • Skin changes such as bruising, thinning, or stretch marks
     • Mood changes and fatigue
2. Aldosterone-Producing Tumors (Conn’s Syndrome / Primary Hyperaldosteronism)
   • These tumors overproduce aldosterone, which controls sodium and potassium balance.
   • Symptoms may include:
     • High blood pressure (often resistant to medications)
     • Low potassium levels
     • Muscle cramps or weakness
     • Increased urination
3. Catecholamine-Producing Tumors (Pheochromocytoma)
   • These rare tumors produce excess adrenaline or noradrenaline.
   • Symptoms may include:
     • Sudden episodes of high blood pressure
     • Rapid heartbeat, palpitations
     • Sweating, anxiety, or tremors
     • Headaches
4. Androgen- or Estrogen-Producing Tumors
   • Tumors that secrete sex hormones may cause:
     • Excess hair growth (hirsutism) or deepened voice in women
     • Breast enlargement in men (gynecomastia)
     • Irregular periods or fertility issues

Diagnosis of Functional Adrenal Tumors

Functional adrenal tumors are diagnosed through:

• Blood and urine hormone tests to detect excess cortisol, aldosterone, catecholamines, or sex hormones
• Imaging studies such as CT or MRI to locate the tumor and assess its size
• Specialized functional tests to confirm hormone overproduction

Early diagnosis is important to prevent complications from hormone imbalance, such as heart disease, diabetes, or kidney damage.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of tumor and its hormonal activity:

• Surgical removal (adrenalectomy): The primary treatment for most functional tumors, especially when causing symptoms or if cancerous
• Medications: In some cases, drugs may control hormone overproduction before or after surgery
• Long-term follow-up: Monitoring hormone levels and imaging is essential to detect recurrence or residual disease

With timely diagnosis and treatment, functional adrenal tumors can often be managed effectively, improving quality of life and preventing serious complications.