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Endocrine glands
Endocrine glands
Adrenal gland biopsy
Adrenal gland biopsy

Adrenal biopsy
Definition:

Removal of a small piece of tissue from the adrenal glands (endocrine glands that lie immediately on top of the kidneys) for examination.
Alternative Names:
Biopsy - adrenal gland
How the test is 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 for the test:
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:

How the test will feel:

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.
Why the test is 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).
What abnormal results mean:
  • 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:
What the risks are:
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.
Special considerations:

It is appropriate to consult your doctor to find a center that is proficient in laparoscopic adrenal biopsy/adrenalectomy.
Review Date: 6/4/2001
Reviewed By: Allan S. Stewart, M.D., Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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