What are adrenal glands?
The adrenal glands are small darkly colored organs found in the area near the top of each kidney. These glands are hormone machines, which effect many other systems in the body:

• Body fluid and salt regulation
• Adrenalin, or epinephrine
• Blood pressure
• Muscle development
• Sexual drive
• Sugar metabolism

Diagnosis
The diagnostic testing required for adrenal conditions is complex, and is dependent on the tumor type. Often a complete endocrine work-up will help determine whether the adrenal is acting alone, or indicate if a pituitary tumor is driving the adrenal gland to produce more hormone.

A CT of the pituitary, blood hormone levels and appropriate consultation with specialists are required.

Treatment
What conditions require adrenalectomy?

Usually only one adrenal is absolutely necessary to sustain a normal life. Taking out an adrenal gland, adrenalectomy, is performed for both malignant and benign health conditions.

Conditions that benefit from adrenalectomy:

• Pheochromocytoma
• Benign tumors as evidenced by CT findings
• Cysts or tumors which secrete hormone

The laparoscopic technique offers excellent visualization of the adrenal structure, and also gives the surgeon the ability to look at both left and right adrenals without the long incisions once required. Removal of one adrenal can adequately be done by laparoscopic methods. It is very rare that both adrenals are malfunctioning, but if both are removed (and sometimes with one gland removed) hormone replacement therapy may be necessary. Close postoperative follow up with a physician specializing in endocrinology is mandatory.