Adrenal Gland Tumor Treatment
The adrenal glands are small triangular-shaped organs that are on top of each of the kidneys. These glands are responsible for producing many of the hormones that regulate the heart, metabolism and many other systems in the body. Adrenal glands are prone to both benign and malignant tumors, and both can impact the performance of these small organs. Danny Shouhed, M.D. offers adrenal gland tumor treatment at his practice in Los Angeles.
Causes of Adrenal Gland Tumors
The exact cause of tumors is not always known, but there are risk factors associated with adrenal gland tumors. Certain diseases and conditions can increase the risk of an adrenal gland tumor. Some of the disorders that are linked to adrenal tumors include:
- Von Recklinghausen’s disease
- Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome
- Paraganglioma syndrome
- Von Hippel-Lindau disease
- Li-Fraumeni disease
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2
While having these disorders does not ensure you will have an adrenal gland tumor, it does increase the risk. It may be worthwhile to have genetic testing and regular screening to check for possible adrenal tumors.
Symptoms of Adrenal Gland Tumors
The symptoms of an adrenal gland tumor can vary from no symptoms to a wide assortment of problems. The symptoms depend on what part of the adrenal gland is affected. Some possible symptoms include:
- Excess fat on the shoulders or neck
- A rounded “moon” face
- Muscle weakness or spasms
- Females – excess body hair, changes in voice (deeper)
- Males – erectile dysfunction, breast swelling/tenderness
- Thinner skin that bruises easily
- Low potassium
- Fatigue
There are many possible effects of an adrenal tumor, whether it is benign or malignant. However, the treatment may vary depending on where the tumor is located and if it is malignant. Removal of the tumor or adrenal glands are common, and it may be combined with chemotherapy and hormone therapy.
Danny Shouhed, M.D. is a highly successful general surgeon that specializes in minimally-invasive surgery that can be used in adrenal gland tumor treatment. If you have been diagnosed with an adrenal gland tumor and need treatment, contact the office of Dr. Shouhed in Los Angeles to schedule an appointment.