Adrenal masses are growths that are often found incidentally but can cause serious health problems if not treated early. General Surgery Specialist Assoc. Prof. from Medipol Acıbadem Regional Hospital. Dr. Hüsnü Aydın explained in detail the surgical intervention process in the treatment of adrenal masses, known as growths originating from the adrenal gland, and the health problems that these masses may cause in the body. Dr. Aydın said that adrenal masses are often noticed without symptoms and that they adopt a multidisciplinary approach when these masses need to be treated.
“ADRENAL MASSES ARE USUALLY SYMPTOM-FREE”
Stating that adrenal masses are generally benign, Dr. Aydın said, “These masses often do not cause any symptoms in our patients. It is often noticed incidentally during imaging studies performed for another disease. However, in some cases, these masses can produce hormones and grow, causing serious health problems.” he said.
DISEASES CAUSED BY HORMONE-PRODUCING ADRENAL MASSES
Dr. states that the production of hormones by adrenal masses can cause three important health problems. Aydın said, “These diseases generally occur as a result of excessive hormone production by the adrenal glands. Cushing Syndrome is a condition characterized by excessive cortisol production. This syndrome, which causes excessive accumulation of stress hormones in the body, requires surgical intervention. The adrenal mass causing Cushing’s disease must be surgically removed. Pheochromocytoma causes high blood pressure attacks as a result of the adrenal glands producing excessive adrenaline and noradrenaline. Diagnosis of this disease is quite difficult, but once diagnosed, treatment must be performed surgically. Conn Syndrome occurs due to excessive aldosterone production in the adrenal glands. This disease causes problems such as low potassium and high blood pressure.” he said.
SURGICAL TREATMENT AND RECOVERY PROCESS
Talking about the risks of adrenal surgery, Dr. Aydın said, “As with every surgery, adrenal surgery also has some risks. These may include conditions such as bleeding, wound infection, and urinary tract infections. However, today these surgeries can be performed safely with great success rates. The recovery process of patients after surgery is quite rapid. Our patients are usually able to stand up in the evening and meet their daily needs. “Most of our patients can be sent home at the end of the first day.” he said.