Question 1

What is Adrenal Tumor or Cancer?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal tumors are abnormal growths in the adrenal glands that produce essential hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and DHEA-S. They are caused by uncontrolled cell growth in the adrenal cortex or medulla, leading to hormone overproduction or disruption. The Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects hormone abnormalities that indicate functioning adrenal tumors.

Question 2

What causes adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal tumors are caused by uncontrolled cell growth in the adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys and produce hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and DHEA-S. Most adrenal tumors are benign (non-cancerous), but some can be malignant adrenal cancers. The exact cause is often unknown, but genetic mutations, inherited conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia, and random cellular changes can trigger tumor development. Many adrenal tumors are functioning tumors, meaning they overproduce hormones and cause noticeable symptoms.

Question 3

What is the best test for adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

The Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) test is the most important blood test for adrenal tumors because it detects hormone abnormalities that indicate whether a tumor is producing excess hormones. Elevated ACTH levels can signal certain types of adrenal tumors or cancers that disrupt normal hormone regulation. The DHEA-S Sulfate test is also essential because adrenal tumors often overproduce DHEA-S, and elevated levels can confirm the presence of a functioning adrenal tumor. These blood tests work alongside imaging studies like CT or MRI scans to provide a complete diagnostic picture and help your healthcare provider determine the best course of action.

Question 4

When should I get tested for adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience symptoms of hormone overproduction such as unexplained weight gain, high blood pressure that is difficult to control, muscle weakness, or unusual fat deposits around your face and neck. You should also consider testing if you notice excessive hair growth, irregular periods, or mood changes like anxiety and depression. Anyone with a family history of adrenal disorders or genetic conditions linked to tumors should get screened regularly. If an imaging scan incidentally discovers an adrenal mass, hormone blood tests are essential to determine if the tumor is functioning and requires treatment.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal tumor symptoms depend on which hormones are overproduced. Cortisol-producing tumors cause Cushing syndrome with weight gain in the face and upper body, purple stretch marks, high blood pressure, diabetes, and easy bruising. Aldosterone-producing tumors lead to low potassium, muscle cramps, excessive thirst, and frequent urination. DHEA-S or androgen-producing tumors cause excessive hair growth, acne, irregular periods in women, and early puberty in children. Some adrenal tumors produce no symptoms and are discovered incidentally during imaging for other conditions.

Question 6

Who is at risk for adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can develop adrenal tumors, but certain factors increase risk. People with genetic syndromes like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2, or familial adenomatous polyposis have higher risk. Adrenal cancer is more common in children under 5 and adults in their 40s and 50s. People with a family history of adrenal disorders or other endocrine tumors should monitor their adrenal health closely. Most adrenal tumors are discovered incidentally in adults over 40 during imaging scans for unrelated conditions.

Question 7

What happens if adrenal tumors are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated functioning adrenal tumors continue to overproduce hormones, leading to serious complications. Excess cortisol causes uncontrolled diabetes, severe osteoporosis, increased infection risk, and heart problems. High aldosterone leads to dangerous potassium depletion, irregular heartbeat, and stroke. Adrenal cancers can grow larger, spread to other organs like the liver and lungs, and become life-threatening. Even benign tumors that produce excess hormones can significantly reduce quality of life and cause permanent damage to bones, muscles, and the cardiovascular system if not addressed promptly.

Question 8

Can adrenal tumors be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot definitively diagnose adrenal tumors, but they are essential for detecting hormone abnormalities that indicate a functioning tumor. The ACTH test and DHEA-S test measure hormone levels that become elevated when adrenal tumors overproduce hormones. Your doctor will also order imaging studies like CT scans or MRI to visualize the tumor itself. Blood tests help determine if a tumor found on imaging is functioning and guide treatment decisions. Additional tests like cortisol levels, aldosterone, metanephrines, and potassium may be ordered based on your symptoms to identify which hormones are affected.

Question 9

How are adrenal tumors treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on tumor type, size, and whether it produces hormones. Benign, non-functioning tumors smaller than 4 cm are often monitored with regular imaging and blood tests. Functioning tumors that overproduce hormones typically require surgical removal through adrenalectomy. Adrenal cancer is treated with surgery to remove the tumor and affected adrenal gland, often followed by chemotherapy with mitotane and radiation therapy if the cancer has spread. Medications can help control hormone overproduction before surgery. Your endocrinologist and surgeon will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific tumor characteristics.

Question 10

How can I prevent adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

Most adrenal tumors cannot be prevented because their cause is often unknown or related to genetic factors beyond your control. If you have a family history of genetic syndromes associated with adrenal tumors, genetic counseling and regular screening can help detect tumors early when they are most treatable. Maintaining overall health through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking may support adrenal gland health. Regular check-ups with your doctor can help identify hormone imbalances or symptoms that warrant further investigation before complications develop.

Question 11

What can I do at home for adrenal tumors?

Accepted Answer

While adrenal tumors require medical treatment, you can support your overall health at home by managing symptoms and supporting your body during treatment. Eat a balanced diet low in sodium if you have high blood pressure, and ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake to protect bone health if cortisol levels are high. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help regulate your nervous system. Get adequate sleep and gentle exercise as tolerated. Keep detailed records of your symptoms and hormone levels to share with your healthcare provider, and take all prescribed medications exactly as directed.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Adrenal Tumor Blood Test

What is Adrenal Tumor or Cancer?

What causes adrenal tumors?

What is the best test for adrenal tumors?

When should I get tested for adrenal tumors?

References

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Us vs. Them

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask Me Anything