Adenoma
Symptoms and treatment of adenoma
With so much focus on and worry about cancer these days, the appearance of any kind of lump or cell cluster can be cause for concern. Certainly, such masses can be symptomatic of cancer and should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible. However, there are many possible causes for growths in the body, and not all growths are malignant. Adenomas, for example, which may appear in various glands and tissues throughout the body, are usually benign.
What Is An Adenoma?
An adenoma is defined as a grouping or growth of cells that are glandular in nature. Specifically, there can be instances of adrenal adenoma, pituitary adenoma, fibroid adenoma (in the breast), thyroid adenoma or tubular adenoma, among others. If diagnosed with an adenoma, you'll be relieved to know that, generally, this type of medical condition is noncancerous. However, if left untreated, it may become malignant.
An example of an adenoma is a polyp within the colon. These adenomas are quite common, and colon polyps are usually removed because of their tendency to become malignant and lead to colon cancer.
Even if they never become malignant, benign adenomas can still cause serious health concerns. The mass of the adenoma can displace or put pressure on other parts of the gland or surrounding tissues, or the adenoma could cause unregulated hormone production, creating disruptions in the body's natural processes. Thus, even noncancerous adenomas should be treated or at least observed by a doctor.
Adenoma Treatment Procedures
The treatment for adenoma depends largely on its location.
Generally, the adenoma found in the colon is looped and snared using a specialized surgical instrument and a technique known as snare electrocoagulation. This procedure is non-invasive and effective.
However, for some of the adenomas that affect glands within the body that are not accessible through orifices, surgery may be indicated. In the case of a pituitary adenoma, treatment may first consist of prescription medication or radiation, with surgery as a last resort, due to the precarious location of the pituitary gland within the human brain.