Non-functioning adrenal adenomas discovered incidentally on computed tomography

Radiology. 1983 Aug;148(2):495-9. doi: 10.1148/radiology.148.2.6867348.

Abstract

Eighteen patients with unilateral non-metastatic, non-functioning adrenal masses were studied with computed tomography (CT). Pathological examination in 6 cases revealed benign adrenal adenoma. The others were followed up with serial CT scans and found to show no change in tumor size over a period of six months to three years. On the basis of these findings, the authors suggest certain criteria of a benign adrenal mass, including (a) diameter less than 5 cm, (b) smooth contour, (c) well-defined margin, and (d) no change in size on follow-up. Serial CT scanning can be used as an alternative to surgery in the management of many of these patients.

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*