Definition:
-
A tumor of the cortisol producing cells will cause an increase of cortisol production. Although there are two adrenal glands, the tumor is typically in one gland only, resulting in a large gland, and a small gland, both of abnormal sizes. This leads to one gland over-producing cortisol, and the other gland (without the tumor) under-producing cortisol.
-
Drastic increase in thirst
Increase in appetite
"Pot belly" due to the enlarging of the liver
Weakened abdomen muscles
Hair loss (without itchiness)
Lethargy
-
Treatment for an Adrenal Cortical Tumor is surgical removal of the tumor and it's gland housing, along with supplemental injections of cortical until the remaining gland is producing cortisol at a normal level.
