Adenoma

Adenoma

An adenoma is a type of tumor originating from glandular tissue. Though it is not cancerous, certain types of adenomas can become malignant if left untreated. Adenomas are characterized by their ability to produce and secrete substances that are typical for the gland from which they originate.

Histopathology of adrenocortical adenoma

Pathophysiology

Adenomas develop from the gland-like cells of the epithelial tissue, which is a thin sheet of cells covering and lining various structures in the body including organs, glands, and other internal cavities. The epithelial tissue serves various functions such as secretion, absorption, protection, and sensation. When cells in this tissue undergo benign proliferation, adenomas form.

Clinical Relevance

While adenomas are benign and do not invade nearby tissues or spread to distant parts of the body, certain types can increase the risk of developing into cancer. For instance, adenomas in the colon, known as adenomatous polyps, have the potential to develop into colon cancer if not detected and removed.

Common adenomas

• Adenoma of the adrenal gland: Often discovered as incidental findings on imaging tests, most are non-functioning, meaning they do not secrete hormones.
• Adenoma of the colon: Known as polyps, these can become precursors to colon cancer.
• Adenoma of the kidneys: Typically small and benign.
• Adenoma of the thyroid: These are benign growths that may produce excess thyroid hormones leading to hyperthyroidism.
• Adenoma of the pituitary: Can lead to various conditions due to hormone overproduction, like Cushing's disease or acromegaly.
• Adenoma of the parathyroid: Might result in hyperparathyroidism, causing elevated calcium levels in the blood.
• Adenoma of the liver: Rare, can be associated with oral contraceptive use or certain metabolic conditions.
• Adenoma of the breast: Often palpable lumps that may be discovered during routine self-examinations or mammography.
• Adenoma of the appendix: Uncommon and typically found incidentally during appendectomy.
• Adenoma of the bronchial: Can lead to bronchial obstructions.
• Adenoma of the sebaceous: Usually small and manifest on the skin.
• Adenoma of the salivary glands: Typically benign tumors of salivary gland origin.
• Adenoma of the prostate: Benign growths that can increase prostate size, leading to urinary symptoms.

See also

• Benign tumors
• Epithelial cells
• Polyps
• Hyperplasia

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