Management of adrenal masses in patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2017 Aug;64(8):10.1002/pbc.26432. doi: 10.1002/pbc.26432. Epub 2017 Jan 9.

Abstract

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is a genetic overgrowth and cancer predisposition syndrome, associated with both benign and malignant adrenal findings. Literature review and an institutional case series elucidate the wide spectrum of adrenal findings in BWS patients. The altered expression of the 11p15 region is likely related to adrenal gland hyperplasia and growth dysregulation. Given the absence of guidelines for managing adrenal findings in BWS, we propose a systematic approach to adrenal findings in BWS patients, to allow for maximum detection of potentially malignant pathology without posing additional risk to patients.

Keywords: 11p overgrowth; Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome; adrenal cytomegaly; adrenal mass; cancer predisposition; isolated hemihypertrophy; tumor screening.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Adrenal Gland Diseases / etiology*
  • Adrenal Gland Diseases / therapy*
  • Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome / complications*
  • Humans