Adrenal Cortical Adenoma
Adrenal Cortical Adenoma

Adrenal Cortical Adenoma

An adenoma is a benign tumor of glandular origin. In this micrograph of an adrenal cortical adenoma, the capsule of the gland is still visible, but cells resembling those of the zona fasciculata have grown out of place. The organized structure of the adrenal gland (capsule, glomerulosa, fasciculata, reticularis) is not present here. What hormone do you expect to be elevated in this patient? What symptoms would you expect the patient to display?
Answer: You would expect cortisol to be elevated in this patient. This would manifest as Cushing’s disease, with rapid weight gain, excess sweating, and skin changes.