Preventing Complications from Adrenal Incidentalomas
Published: Jul 23, 2024
Preventive measures can help manage adrenal incidentalomas and avoid complications, improving patient outcomes.
Contents
Monitoring Size and Growth
Regular imaging is key to monitoring adrenal incidentalomas. If a mass grows by more than 1 cm, it may require surgical evaluation. Consistent follow-ups help catch malignant changes early.
Avoiding Biopsy Risks
Biopsies can pose risks like bleeding or infection. They should only be done if imaging strongly suggests cancer and after ruling out pheochromocytoma, which can cause dangerous reactions during biopsy.

Biochemical Monitoring
Regular hormone tests can prevent undetected hormone secretion. Annual tests for up to four years can catch changes early, allowing for timely intervention if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Annual imaging is recommended for benign-appearing masses.
Biopsies can cause bleeding and infections.
Yes, it detects changes in hormone secretion over time.
Wrapping Up
Monitoring and preventive measures are vital for managing adrenal incidentalomas.
References
- Grumbach MM, Biller BM, Braunstein GD, et al. Management of the clinically inapparent adrenal mass ('incidentaloma'). Ann Intern Med 2003; 138:424.
- Wilson MP, Randhawa S, Bao B, et al. Impact of Size Thresholds on the Diagnosis of Incidental Adrenal Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Am Coll Radiol 2024; 21:107.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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