D35.0: Benign neoplasm: Adrenal gland

When there is abnormal growth of tissue in an organ, then this is also referred to as a tumor. The tissue in the body is made up of cells. A tumor disorder involves the cells multiplying more than normal. This results in abnormal or excess tissue forming. A tumor can be benign or malignant. The tumor you have is benign. Benign tumors do not destroy the healthy tissue and do not spread throughout the body.

The adrenal glands are at the top of the kidneys. The adrenal glands form the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol has many effects in the body. For example, cortisol is important for the sugar level in the blood and for blood pressure. The adrenal glands also produce a hormone (messenger substance) that manages the levels of minerals in the blood. Minerals help regulate hydration and maintain fluid balance in the body. The adrenal glands also form sex hormones. Every person has female and male sex hormones in their body.

A tumor of the adrenal glands can therefore cause a great range of symptoms. As the adrenal glands produce a lot of hormones, a tumor can lead to high blood pressure, for example. It is also possible to have a racing heart or anxiety. You may too many male sex hormones, with the possibility of having a deep voice or an increase in body hair.

However, it is also possible that you will have no symptoms at all.