Adrenal cortical adenoma arising in the setting of renal–adrenal fusion: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Abstract Background Renal–adrenal fusion is a rare entity resulting from incomplete encapsulation of the adrenal gland and kidney. Only 18 cases have been reported in English literature to date. Case presentation Our patient is a 77-year-old African American female who presented with a systolic blood pressure of 200 mmHg. Computed tomography showed an enhancing 9 × 6 cm mass anterior and medial to the left kidney. The patient underwent a left adrenalectomy with partial nephrectomy. Gross and histologic examinations revealed an adrenal cortical adenoma and renal–adrenal fusion. Conclusion Renal–adrenal fusion may pose a diagnostic challenge, particularly when there is a concurrent adrenal adenoma. It is important to be aware of this uncommon anomaly to avoid misdiagnosis and overtreatment.