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ABCMD definition of Adenoma: An Adenoma is a benign tumor, or a tumor of curable nature, that originates from specific cells called epithelial cells or secretory cells.

What is an Adenoma?

Glands are organs in the body which are made up of epithelial cells used for secretion of substances. Adenomas are tumors or abnormal grwoths that originate from these secretory cells.  Adenomas can occur anywhere in the body where epithelial cells or secretory cells exist including the breasts, adrenal glands, lungs, colon, thyroid, kidney, pituitary gland, etc. 

Adenomas are benign in nature (not malignant), meaning they are usually curable and do not usually metastasize, or move to other parts of the body.  However, they have the ability to become malignant over time.  If they do so, they are called Adenocarcinomas.

A benign tumor, such as an adenoma, can still cause health problems for those affected.  One of the problems a benign tumor can cause is mass effect.  This is simply when the tumor or mass presses against or takes up the space another structure in your body needs.  For example, an adenoma in the airway to your lungs can lead to shortness of breath and potentially to the development of infections such as pneumonia.  Benign tumors also can the have the ability to secrete hormones (chemicals different parts of your body uses to communicate) in your body in much larger amounts then they usually exist. 

What are the symptoms of Adenoma?

The symptoms of an adenoma vary to a great extent, depending on where the tumor occurs.

Examples:

Lung adenomas can result in fever or infections such as pneumonia, shortness of breath, cough, etc.

Breast adenomas (usually called fibroadenomas), may not cause you to have any symptoms at all, however on occasion, can be discovered as a breast lump.  If you find anything new or different on your monthly self breast examinations such as lumps, nipple discharge, skin changes, etc, you should call your doctor immediately.   

Adrenal adenomas may produce abnormal amounts of steroid hormones in the body such as excessive amounts of Cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone which is involved in your body’s response to stress and energy balance.  Excessive amounts of Cortisol can result in Cushing’s syndrome. 

How are adenomas diagnosed?

Different types of adenomas are diagnosed by different methods. For example, adrenal adenomas are usually discovered through computed-tomography (CT) or magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI) scanning.

As discussed above, some forms of Adenomas have the ability to develop into malignant tumors (cancer).  A good example of this is often times seen in the colon where adenomas can become colon cancer.  Therefore, a timely diagnosis of some adenomas is necessary for effective and successful treatment in those people affected.

How are adenomas treated?

Most commonly, treatment for adenomas is removal of the tumor from the body. For example, Adrenal adenomas (adenomas which produce hormones in the adrenal glands above the kidneys) can be treated by removing the adenoma or adrenal gland from the body through a surgery known as Adrenalectomy.  Adrenalectomies can be performed with laparoscopy (small incisions and the use of cameras inside your abdomen). 

Some adenomas which are relatively small in size and not producing mass effect can be left alone and generally should be regularly monitored by your doctor.