Adrenal Ganglioneuroma: Presentation, Radiology, Histopathology, and Management

Abstract

Ab s t r Ac t Aim and objective: Ganglioneuromas (GNs) are rare, benign tumors arising at peripheral autonomic ganglion sites. Their diagnosis is challenging and typically reliant on a histopathological diagnosis. We present two case studies of adrenal GN managed within our department alongside a review of the literature concerning the diagnosis and management of these unusual entities. Materials and methods: We documented the presentation, investigation, and management of two patients with adrenal GN. Additionally, we conducted a literature review based on searching PubMed utilizing the term “adrenal ganglioneuroma”. Results: Both patients presented with an incidental indeterminate adrenal mass on imaging and underwent further laboratory investigations, abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. In both cases, laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed with specimens demonstrating adrenal GN on histopathological analysis. Our literature review further demonstrated the infrequency of these lesions and the difficulty involved in their diagnosis. Conclusion: Ganglioneuroma occurs rarely in the adrenal gland usually without preceding clinical symptoms. Diagnosis is challenging and care must be taken to exclude malignant neuroblastoma and ganglioblastoma.