Adrenal Tumors in Adults

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Adrenal tumors present diagnostic challenges due to fragmented tissue or equivocal malignant features.
• Recent advances reveal significant molecular alterations in adrenal tumors, particularly pheochromocytomas.
• Germline mutations in adrenal tumors have substantial clinical implications for patients and families.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of common adult adrenal tumors.
• To assist pathologists in diagnosing challenging adrenal neoplasms.
• To integrate molecular findings into the diagnostic approach for adrenal tumors.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on adrenal tumor pathology and molecular genetics.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria for common and challenging adrenal tumors.
• Discussion of the clinical significance of molecular alterations.

Main Results:

• Identification of key histological features and pitfalls in adrenal tumor diagnosis.
• Summary of prevalent molecular alterations in pheochromocytomas and other adrenal neoplasms.
• Emphasis on the importance of integrating molecular data for risk stratification.

Conclusions:

• Pathologists require updated knowledge to manage complex adrenal tumor cases.
• Understanding molecular alterations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
• This review serves as a guide for navigating diagnostic challenges in adrenal pathology.