A Rare Adrenal Incidentaloma That Mimics Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Abstract

Objective. We present a case of an adrenal hemangioma, an uncommon cause of an adrenal mass, and review the clinical presentation, work-up, and management of adrenal incidentalomas. Background. A 64-year-old male was found to have a right adrenal incidentaloma during work-up for elevated liver transaminase levels, later found to be from hepatitis C. The mass was suspicious for adrenocortical carcinoma on CT imaging. Biochemical evaluation revealed no evidence of function. He underwent an open right adrenalectomy. The mass was found to be an adrenal hemangioma on histopathologic analysis. Methods. This is a case report with pertinent review of the diagnosis and management of adrenal incidentalomas. Results. Adrenal hemangiomas are rare, benign, nonfunctional tumors typically found during imaging for other reasons. As illustrated by this case, they appear similar to adrenocortical carcinoma on CT imaging. The diagnosis is usually not made prior to surgical resection. Conclusion. Adrenal hemangioma is a rare nonfunctional adrenal incidentaloma that displays atypical features on CT imaging. The suspicion for adrenocortical carcinoma usually prompts adrenalectomy.