Exploring the Differential Diagnosis of Adrenal Adenoma in the Context of Situs Ambiguous: A Clinical Case Study
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A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Pavel E Stanchev1, Mariya Dimitrova2, Desislava Makakova2
1Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, St. George University Hospital, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Abstract:
Situs anomalies, including situs inversus and situs ambiguous (SAMB), are rare congenital conditions typically noted in pediatric populations, with SAMB being particularly uncommon in adults. This case study addresses the incidental discovery of situs ambiguous with polysplenia in a 65-year-old man evaluated for suspected adrenal adenoma. The patient's medical history included benign prostatic hyperplasia and tuberculous pleurisy. Methods included a thorough physical examination and laboratory tests, which showed normal cortisol levels and ACTH rhythm. Contrast-enhanced CT imaging revealed multiple spleens near the right adrenal region, altered liver positioning, a truncated pancreas, and a right-sided stomach, while the right adrenal gland was not visualized. Notably, the patient exhibited minimal symptoms despite these significant anatomical anomalies. The findings underscore the rarity of situs ambiguous in adults and its unexpected association with endocrine pathology. This case highlights the importance of comprehensive imaging and a multidisciplinary approach in managing patients with unusual anatomical presentations. It suggests that situs anomalies may be more prevalent in adult populations than previously recognized and emphasizes the need for increased clinical awareness and evaluation in similar cases.
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