Adrenocortical carcinoma masquerading as a benign adenoma on computed tomography washout study

Urology. 2012 Feb;79(2):e19-20. doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2011.05.048. Epub 2011 Aug 2.

Abstract

An incidental adrenal mass is a common finding on cross-sectional imaging, with most of these lesions being benign adenomas. Indications for adrenalectomy turn on the likelihood that a mass is malignant or whether it exhibits metabolic activity. Modern imaging is considered highly accurate in differentiating adrenal adenomas from other adrenal pathology. We present a case of a 5-cm adrenal lesion with computed tomography washout characteristics consistent with a benign adenoma, which proved upon resection to be an adrenocortical carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma / diagnosis*
  • Adrenal Cortex Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Adrenal Cortex Neoplasms / surgery
  • Adrenalectomy
  • Carcinoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carcinoma / surgery
  • Contrast Media / pharmacokinetics
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Errors*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*

Substances

  • Contrast Media