A benign adrenal adenoma is a non-cancerous growth of the glandular tissue of the adrenal gland. Under normal conditions, a pair of adrenal glands--which sit atop the kidneys--help regulate hormone levels, producing hormones to meet the needs of the body. Adrenal adenomas can disrupt normal hormone levels, and the resulting hormonal imbalance, as well as the tumor growth itself, can lead to a number of symptoms.
Hypertension
One possible symptom of a benign adrenal adenoma is hypertension, or high blood pressire. This symptom is caused by excess aldosterone production in the body. Aldosterone is normally generated within the adrenal glands, and then signals to cells and tissues throughout the body. In some cases, cells within the adrenal tumor synthesize aldosterone uncontrollably, raising the overall levels of the hormone in the body. NetDoctor indicates that patients with excessive aldosterone levels cause a condition called Conn's disease, characterized by high blood pressure. Patients can help lower their blood pressure by avoiding excess salt in their diet, as well as taking blood pressure medication and receiving treatment for the adrenal tumor.
Development of Cushing's Syndrome
Another possible symptom of a benign adrenal adenoma is the development of a disease called Cushing's syndrome. Patients develop Cushing's after sustained exposure to high levels of cortisol, a stress hormone produced in the adrenal glands. Under normal conditions, cortisol secretion relies on chemicals signals from the body, controlling the amount of cortisol in the blood. However, adrenal tumors may begin to produce abnormally high levels of cortisol. This excessive cortisol can lead to truncal obesity, excessive hair growth, acne and impotence, according to Medline Plus. Patients with Cushing's disease may receive hormone therapies to lower cortisol in the body, and may correct their hormone imbalance with treatment for the adrenal tumor.
Pain
Many patients with benign adrenal adenomas experience pain as a result of tumor growth. The adrenal glands are surrounded by other tissues and organs within the abdominal cavity, and the abnormal enlargement of the gland can put pressure on surrounding nerves. As a result, patients may develop abdominal or lower back pain. MedlinePlus indicates that patients with adrenal tumors may also develop bone pain as a result of hormonal imbalances that can occur during tumor development. Patients with persistent pain should seek medical attention, as this pain may indicate a range of disorders, including a benign adrenal adenoma.
