Adrenal Glands

Abstract

The adrenal cortex is derived from mesoderm and the medulla, from neural crest ectoderm. An adrenal gland weighs approximately 5 g. The cortex secretes corticosteroids (cortisol), aldosterone, and sex hormones. Masses are most commonly asymptomatic. Adrenal incidentalomas are masses greater than 1 cm in diameter that are found in 2% to 4% of all CTs. Adrenalectomy is indicated for masses that are enlarging, larger than 4 to 6 cm, or functional (secreting hormone); the operation is fixated on safe transection of adrenal blood vessels. Complications are relatively uncommon with laparoscopic adrenalectomy.