Adrenocortical Adenoma - Adenoma of the Adrenal Cortex
Adenoma can invade any glandular tissue in the body irrespective of whether it is endocrine or exocrine. When the adenoma is present in the adrenal gland, it is known as adrenocortical adenoma. In simple terms, the adrenal cortex is situated on the adrenal gland. This gland produces hormones in response to stress. The adrenal cortex has several layers that perform various functions, the topmost cortical layer is known as zone glomerulosa and it produces mineral corticoids.
The second layer is formed as the zona fasciculata and it produces gluco corticoids like cortisol. This is followed by the zona reticular which is the inner most layer in the adrenal cortex and it produces weak androgens. All the adrenocortical hormones that are produced by the adrenal cortex are produced by the breakdown of cholesterol. When adenoma is found in the adreno cortical layers it is known as adrenocortical adenoma.
In most cases, it is a benign form of tumor that is dormant or inactive. This does not have many complications and can be easily removed. It has been found that adrenocortical adenoma is also associated with the Cushing's syndrome. The genetic abnormality is identified by the presence of adrenocortical adenoma in the patients.
In other cases, adrenocortical adenoma also causes primary aldosteronism which can be cured. A plethora of information is available on the internet and one can also search specifically for adrenocortical adenoma symptoms and treatment options on the internet. There is also motivational material for patients undergoing treatment for cancer.
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