Are Adrenal Tumours Cancerous?
Adrenal tumours are a relatively rare type of tumour that develops in the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. These tumours can be either benign or malignant, with malignant tumours being cancerous. While the majority of adrenal tumours are benign, it’s essential to understand the signs and symptoms of malignant adrenal tumours and the available treatment options.
Adrenal tumour: symptoms and causes
The exact causes of adrenal tumours are not always clear, but some factors, such as genetic mutations, exposure to certain toxins or radiation, and certain medical conditions, may increase the risk of developing adrenal tumours.
The symptoms of adrenal tumours can vary depending on whether the tumour is benign or malignant. Benign adrenal tumours may not cause any symptoms, but larger tumours may cause abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, or high blood pressure. Malignant adrenal tumours may cause weight loss, abdominal pain, fever, and excessive sweating.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes.
Are Adrenal Tumours Cancerous?
Adrenal tumours can be either benign or malignant, with malignant tumours being cancerous. Benign adrenal tumours are non-cancerous growths that do not spread to other parts of the body. They are typically discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other medical conditions and often do not cause any symptoms.
Malignant adrenal tumours, on the other hand, can spread to other parts of the body and are considered cancerous. While malignant adrenal tumours are rare, they can be very aggressive and require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options for malignant adrenal tumours typically include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
How fast do adrenal tumours grow?
The growth rate of adrenal tumours can vary widely. Some adrenal tumours grow very slowly and may remain the same size for years or even decades, while others can grow rapidly and become malignant. The rate of growth can depend on various factors, such as the size and location of the tumour, as well as the individual’s age, health status, and genetic makeup.
In general, malignant adrenal tumours tend to grow more quickly than benign tumours, but this is not always the case. Regular monitoring through imaging tests is necessary to track the growth of adrenal tumours and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Contact us
If you are experiencing symptoms of adrenal tumour or have been diagnosed with one, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. At Birmingham HPB clinic we have a team of dedicated surgeons who are highly experienced in treating adrenal tumours and can provide you with a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs.
With state-of-the-art facilities and advanced surgical techniques, we can offer the latest treatment options to ensure the best possible outcomes. Contact our clinic today to schedule an appointment.