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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
06:08
A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Incidental and metastatic adrenal masses
Massimo Mannelli1, Stefano Colagrande, Andrea Valeri
1Department of Clinical Pathophysiology, Endocrinology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy. m.mannelli@dfc.unifi.it
Seminars in Oncology
|December 21, 2010
Summary
Adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) are common, requiring assessment for malignancy and hormonal imbalance. Management involves imaging, hormonal tests, and sometimes surgery, though criteria for subclinical Cushing
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) are increasingly discovered during imaging for other conditions.
- These masses present diagnostic challenges regarding malignancy and hormonal function.
- Subclinical Cushing's syndrome (SCS) is a common finding in AIs, with debated diagnostic and treatment criteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the diagnostic approach for adrenal incidentalomas.
- To discuss the management strategies for benign and malignant adrenal masses.
- To highlight the controversies surrounding subclinical Cushing's syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Radiological evaluation (e.g., CT, MRI).
- Hormonal assessment of adrenal function.
- Functional imaging and fine-needle biopsy (FNB) in selected cases.
Main Results:
- Most AIs are benign cortical adenomas, some causing SCS.
- Surgical removal is recommended for hypersecretory or suspicious masses.
- Laparoscopic surgery is preferred for benign masses; management of malignancies is debated.
Conclusions:
- A systematic approach involving imaging and hormonal testing is crucial for AI management.
- Further research is needed to clarify SCS diagnostic and treatment guidelines.
- Long-term follow-up strategies for non-surgically treated AIs require establishment.
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