Osmosis video - Adrenal masses and tumors: Clinical

Adrenal masses are lumps or tumors that form in the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located just above the kidneys and produce hormones that help to regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and the body's response to stress.

Adrenal tumors can be either benign (noncancerous) or cancerous. Most adrenal tumors are benign. However, a small number of them (about 5 percent) may be cancerous. If an adrenal tumor is cancerous, it may spread to other parts of the body.

Symptoms of an adrenal mass or tumor vary depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include weight loss, truncal obesity, fatigue, hypertension, and signs of diabetes mellitus.