Alternate Names: Biopsy - adrenal gland

How Performed:

This is a surgical procedure usually performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the abdomen and a small sample is obtained from the adrenal gland(s) and sent to the pathologist for examination.

This test most often accompanies removal of an adrenal mass or tumor (such as pheochromocytoma). Both adrenal biopsy and removal of the adrenal gland is now successfully performed laparoscopically.

How To Prepare: Fasting for 6 to 8 hours is necessary for any surgical procedure.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child’s age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child’s age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How It Feels:

As with any abdominal surgery, there will be some discomfort after surgery; pain medications can be prescribed for this. Complete recovery from surgery can take 2 months, with an open procedure, however, recovery is on the order of one to three weeks following laparoscopic removal.

Stool softeners may be given to avoid constipation. While in the hospital, move your legs often to reduce the risk of deep venous thrombosis. Physical activities are encouraged to strengthen the abdominal wall muscles.

Risks: The risks are those of a major surgery. Call the health care provider if there are any signs of infection (such as fever, muscle aches, and drainage from the incision site) or bleeding (hemorrhage). Also watch for signs of a hernia in the incision.

Why Performed:

An adrenal biopsy is usually performed for pathologic examination and identification of an adrenal mass or tumor.

Normal Values: This test is performed only when there is an abnormality (as identified by other testing).

Abnormal Results:

• pheochromocytoma (the most common adrenal tumor)
• other malignant tumors
• other non-malignant conditions (such as adenoma)

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) II

Cost:

Special Considerations:

It is appropriate to consult your doctor to find a center that is proficient in laparoscopic adrenal biopsy/adrenelectomy.