In honour of National Radiology Day, the Carling Adrenal Centre is highlighting the latest radiology techniques for diagnosing and treating adrenal tumours. These advanced methods enable most patients with adrenal tumours to undergo smaller, less invasive procedures that are curative for the majority.

The centre uses techniques including adrenal vein sampling (AVS), CT, MRI, and PET scans to diagnose and manage conditions like primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn's syndrome), primary hypercortisolism (Cushing's syndrome), adrenal adenomas, pheochromocytomas, and adrenal cancers. As one of the world’s highest-volume adrenal hospitals, the Carling Adrenal Centre prioritises providing each patient with precise, targeted diagnostic options, aiming to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Adrenal Vein Sampling: Personalised Care for Hyperaldosteronism

For patients with primary hyperaldosteronism, AVS is often critical in pinpointing whether excess aldosterone is produced by one or both adrenal glands. This level of precision helps to personalise treatment: in cases where one gland is responsible, surgery may be recommended, whereas bilateral cases are typically managed with medication. The Carling Adrenal Centre is a leader in performing AVS worldwide, refining treatment options and enhancing precision for patients who benefit from this specialised procedure. For some patients, particularly younger individuals with clearly unilateral adrenal masses, treatment decisions can be made based solely on imaging, reducing the need for AVS and minimising invasive procedures.

Advanced Imaging in Adrenal Diagnostics

Alongside AVS, the Carling Adrenal Centre uses a variety of imaging tools to assess adrenal health:

• CT Scans serve as a primary diagnostic step, offering detail on the size, density, and shape of adrenal tumours.
• MRI Scans deliver high-resolution images, especially useful for complex cases or patients unable to tolerate contrast agents.
• PET Scans reveal metabolic activity, helping to detect metastases in adrenal cancers and pheochromocytomas.

Each imaging modality has a distinct role, enabling the centre to provide accurate assessments and clear guidance for treatment.

Managing a Range of Adrenal Disorders

The Carling Adrenal Centre treats conditions from benign adenomas to aggressive adrenal cancers. Benign adrenal adenomas often require no intervention if non-functional; however, if they produce cortisol or aldosterone, they can lead to conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or primary hyperaldosteronism, warranting surgical removal. Pheochromocytomas are adrenal tumours that can lead to symptoms such as hypertension and palpitations and are commonly identified through MRI and PET scans. Cushing’s syndrome, caused by excessive cortisol production due to adrenal tumours, can result in weight gain and other metabolic issues, making early diagnosis vital. Adrenal cancers, although rare, are highly aggressive and demand immediate diagnosis and treatment.

Celebrating National Radiology Day

National Radiology Day underscores the essential role of imaging in modern medicine. The Carling Adrenal Centre remains committed to advancing patient education on these imaging technologies and their role in adrenal care, helping patients achieve optimal outcomes through precise and expert-led diagnostic processes.

 

 

 

Source: prnewswire.com

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