If no changes in imaging characteristics are noted on subsequent scans, continued care can range from no further follow-up (nodule is considered benign and does not need to be followed) to imaging and biochemical/laboratory testing for five years. If patients are found to have a benign appearing nodule by imaging and no evidence of excess hormone production, patients are scheduled for a follow-up CT scan in 6 months. Other laboratory studies may be obtained depending on individual patient findings. Patients also have blood drawn and submit urine samples (drawn over 24 hours) to test for excess amounts of adrenal hormones. At University of Michigan, our team prefers to investigate adrenal abnormalities using CT first, and MRI if a different type of study is needed. Evaluation of an adrenal abnormality found on imaging is done to ensure two things: 1) the nodule has benign imaging characteristics (make sure the nodule doesn't look like an adrenal cancer), and 2) ensure no evidence of hormone excess (make sure the nodule is producing too much of the hormones it normally produces).Īn appropriate evaluation of a newly found adrenal nodule includes obtaining a CT scan or MRI done specifically to look at the adrenal glands.
When a patient is found to have an adrenal nodule, a systematic approach should be followed to further evaluate the nodule. Most adrenal nodules do not cause any symptoms and are found only when imaging studies (CT scans, MRIs) are obtained to evaluate symptoms related to another problem. The vast majority are benign (non-cancerous) and do not produce excess amounts of hormone. Adrenal nodules are found in approximately 5-8% of all patients.
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