An adrenal cyst is a growth that appears on the adrenal gland. It is very rare, affecting only one or two people in 10,000. Most adrenal cysts are found incidentally, or by accident, when a patient is being examined for other problems. The majority of people who are diagnosed with adrenal gland cysts are women, and although an adrenal cyst can occur at any age, most of them are found in patients between 30 and 60 years of age.
There are two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney. The adrenal gland secretes hormones that help regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating. Other hormones secreted by the adrenal glands include corticosteroids, which play a role in regulating salt levels in the body and testosterone. They are regulated by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus.
There are four types of adrenal cysts. Most adrenal cysts are known as endothelial cysts, which are benign and usually cause no symptoms and are similar to the less common epithelial cysts. Approximately 40% of adrenal cysts found are considered pseudocysts and can become malignant. The fourth type of adrenal cyst is a parasitic cyst. This rare cyst is caused by the larvae of the species Echinococcus granulosus.
A benign adrenal cyst usually causes no symptoms, although if it becomes larger it can cause pain in the abdomen or back. Most adrenal cysts are found when other tests, such as X-rays or computed tomography (CT) are done, would otherwise go undetected. A symptomatic adrenal cyst can affect hormone levels, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Treatment for an adrenal cyst usually consists of watchful waiting, with regular tests such as CT scans and blood tests to look at growth pattern and hormonal changes. The other option is surgical removal, which can be done laparoscopically, or through small incisions using a long, thin instrument equipped with a small camera. Surgery is not usually required unless the cyst is affecting the body's hormonal balance or causing pain due to its size.
Most people with an adrenal gland cyst don't know they have one unless it is seen while having tests for other medical problems. Since most cysts do not cause any physical symptoms, a conservative approach to treatment is followed. The cause of adrenal gland cysts is not yet known, although heredity is thought to play a role.