The adrenal glands are a pair of small organs that are located just above both kidneys. The adrenal gland is divided into two main parts: the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex. The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing hormones that are vital for the human body. Though rare, tumors may develop in the adrenal cortex. The most common tumors of the adrenal cortex are adrenal adenomas, or benign adenomas, reports the American Cancer Society. These tumors are usually less than two centimeters across and can occur in one or both adrenal glands. Identifying the possible symptoms of these tumors can speed diagnosis and aid in the selection of the proper treatment option.
Conn's Syndrome
The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing the hormone aldosterone. If the adrenal adenoma is located on the area that produces this hormone, then the tumor can greatly increase the amount of aldosterone released into the body. High levels of aldosterone in the body lead to a disorder called Conn's syndrome, states the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. The aldosterone causes a significant increase in blood pressure, while reducing the levels of potassium within the blood. Removing the tumor, will reduce the amount of aldosterone in the blood, and relieve these symptoms.
Cushing Syndrome
Cushing syndrome can be a symptom of an adrenal adenoma, according to MedlinePlus, a National Institutes of Health website. Symptoms of Cushing syndrome include upper body obesity, a slow growth rate in children, swelling of the face and acne. These symptoms are caused by excess cortisol production. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol release can be greatly increased in patients with adrenal adenomas. In more severe cases, patients may develop decreased fertility, impotence, mental deficits, and a weakening of the bones, which may lead to spinal or rib fractures.
Secondary Sexual Trait Abnormalities
The adrenal gland produces hormones called androgens and estrogens. Androgens are responsible for the secondary sexual characteristics in men, while estrogen aids in the development of the female body. In some patients, an adrenal adenoma can cause a drastic increase in the amount of sex hormones produced in the body, reports the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. In men, excess estrogen can cause gynecomastia, or the development of breast tissue. Estrogen can also cause impotence if it is found in extreme excess in males. Excess androgen can cause increased facial and body hair growth, increased muscle mass, abnormal menstrual periods and acne in women.
