Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 15, 2026
06:08
A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
24.6K
Subclinical hypercortisolism in adrenal incidentaloma
Miguel Debono1, John Newell-Price
1Academic Unit of Endocrinology, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, UK.
Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Obesity
|April 15, 2015
Summary
Subclinical hypercortisolism in adrenal incidentaloma patients is common and linked to health risks. Further research is needed to determine optimal treatment strategies for these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Adrenal incidentalomas are common, with 30-50% exhibiting subclinical hypercortisolism.
- Subclinical hypercortisolism lacks overt Cushing's syndrome features but is associated with comorbidities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current developments in adrenal incidentaloma with subclinical hypercortisolism.
- To discuss diagnostic challenges, complications, and treatment controversies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of diagnostic strategies and treatment outcomes.
- Analysis of existing data on subclinical hypercortisolism and its impact.
Main Results:
- Subclinical hypercortisolism is linked to cardiovascular risk factors, events, and increased mortality.
- Conflicting data exists regarding the benefits of surgical intervention for these patients.
Conclusions:
- Definitive diagnostic guidelines for subclinical hypercortisolism are needed.
- Prospective randomized trials are essential to guide medical or surgical interventions.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Adrenal Gland Disorders
4.2K
Adrenal gland disorders manifest when the production of adrenal hormones deviates from the norm, resulting in either excessive or insufficient concentrations.
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
4.2K
01:31Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
7.0K
Adrenal hormones play a pivotal role in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance and orchestrating responses to stress, showcasing the intricate functions of the adrenal cortex and medulla.
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and...
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and...
7.0K
01:37Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
71.1K
The response to stress—be it physical or psychological, acute or chronic—involves activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is part of the neuroendocrine system because it involves both neuronal and hormonal communication. Its function is to regulate homeostatic systems—metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune—providing the necessary means to respond to a stressor.
71.1K
01:17Anatomy of the Adrenal Glands
6.4K
The adrenal or supra-renal glands, situated above the kidneys and aligned with the twelfth rib, are paired pyramid-shaped structures crucial for the body's stress response. During stress, these glands secrete hormones vital for adaptive physiological reactions.
These glands possess a distinctive yellow tinge due to the stored cholesterol and fatty acids required for hormone synthesis. They are encased in a fibrous capsule and cushioned by fat.
The adrenal gland comprises two distinct...
These glands possess a distinctive yellow tinge due to the stored cholesterol and fatty acids required for hormone synthesis. They are encased in a fibrous capsule and cushioned by fat.
The adrenal gland comprises two distinct...
6.4K
01:27Sympathetic Pathways: Collateral Ganglia and Adrenal Medulla
3.5K
The sympathetic pathways of the collateral ganglia and adrenal medulla serve unique but interconnected roles in the sympathetic response.
Collateral Ganglia
Sympathetic preganglionic axons reach the collateral ganglia along the route of splanchnic nerves. These nerves bypass the sympathetic trunk and communicate with sympathetic postganglionic neurons housed in the prevertebral ganglia. These ganglia supply the organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.
The greater splanchnic nerve, formed by the...
Collateral Ganglia
Sympathetic preganglionic axons reach the collateral ganglia along the route of splanchnic nerves. These nerves bypass the sympathetic trunk and communicate with sympathetic postganglionic neurons housed in the prevertebral ganglia. These ganglia supply the organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.
The greater splanchnic nerve, formed by the...
3.5K
01:24Physiological Foundation of Stress
1.1K
Stress triggers a coordinated physiological response involving the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This dual activation ensures that the body is prepared for both immediate and prolonged stress management. The process begins with the perception of a stressor. This initial phase activates the SNS, leading to the rapid release of adrenaline (epinephrine) from the adrenal glands.
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
1.1K