Adrenal gland enlargement

Diagnostic Evaluation

Adrenal enlargement reflects endocrinologic hyperfunction, tumor growth, or diffuse gland changes. Imaging localizes adrenal masses, assesses symmetry, and evaluates local invasion. Ultrasound is the most common first test for detecting enlargement and assessing vascular/neighbor structures. CT best characterizes mass extent and metastasis and helps plan surgery. Radiographs are limited for small lesions. MRI adds soft-tissue detail; nuclear tests are selective.