Clinicopathological Features of Ganglioneuroma Originating From the Adrenal Glands.

BACKGROUND: Ganglioneuromas are benign tumors that rarely develop from adrenal glands. In this study, we present our clinical experience of patients with adrenal ganglioneuroma (AGN).

METHODS: Demographic, diagnostic, surgical, and pathologic findings of patients who were adrenalectomized as a result of AGN were retrospectively reviewed from the database of a tertiary referral hospital.

RESULTS: Among 1784 patients who underwent an adrenalectomy between 2002 and 2015, 35 (1.9 %; 14 males, 21 females) were diagnosed with AGN. Mean age was 33.4 ± 18.7 years (0-84). Twenty-nine (82.9 %) were asymptomatic, four (11.4 %) complained of abdominal discomfort, and two (5.7 %) had abdominal distension. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) reported AGN in 22 (62.9 %) cases. Precontrast Hounsfield units, increased postcontrast phase attenuation, and well-defined borders were characteristic CT features of AGN. Mean tumor size was 6.3 ± 3.3 cm (range, 1.5-16.0). No recurrence occurred during a median follow-up period of 19 months (range, 1-120).

CONCLUSION: AGN was asymptomatic in most cases and diagnosis may be challenging. Adrenalectomy is a safe treatment modality for AGN and ensures favorable outcomes when diagnosed.