Adrenal Tumors

Adrenal tumors are diverse in their presentation and management. They can be benign or malignant, functional or nonfunctional, and may be associated with various syndromes. Surgical oncology plays a crucial role in the treatment of adrenal tumors, especially adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), which requires careful preoperative evaluation and surgical planning. Familial syndromes such as MEN1 and Carney’s syndrome can be associated with adrenal tumors, making genetic counseling important. Imaging studies like CT and MRI are crucial for diagnosis and assessing the extent of the disease. Surgical approaches vary based on the tumor’s size, location, and malignancy potential, with laparoscopic adrenalectomy being preferred for small-to-medium benign tumors. Advanced ACC may require open surgery and, in some cases, radical resections with caval or cavo-atrial thrombectomy. Postoperative management is important, especially in functional tumors, to manage hormonal imbalances and prevent complications. The prognosis depends on the tumor type, stage, and completeness of resection, with ACC having a generally poor prognosis, especially in advanced stages.