Work

Plan of Management of Adrenal Incidentaloma Diagnosed with Carcinoma Colon: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: During staging workup of colorectal cancer (CRC), adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) are frequently identified with an incidence of approximately 9-13%. Among AIs, adrenal adenomas are most commonly detected followed by adrenal myelolipomas (AMLs), presenting a diagnostic and management challenge in cancer staging. Case Presentation: We present a case of well-differentiated carcinoma of the caecum in a male patient who presented with a right iliac fossa mass and severe anaemia without any comorbidities. Colonoscopic biopsy confirmed our diagnosis. During staging workup, CT imaging of abdomen revealed a coincidental left adrenal mass suggestive of myelolipoma. Endocrinal evaluation was performed to rule out functional status of the tumour. It was a normetanephrine secreting tumour though other parameters for pheochromocytoma were within normal limit creating diagnostic confusion. The patient underwent simultaneous right hemicolectomy and left adrenalectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of AML concurrent with carcinoma caecum. The patient's post-operative course was uneventful. Patient received complete adjuvant treatment and under regular follow-up. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of detailed preoperative evaluation and management of AIs discovered during staging workup of colon carcinoma. While most AIs are benign, appropriate radiological and functional assessment is crucial for optimal surgical planning. Our case demonstrates the need for simultaneous resection of CRC and AML when the diagnosis is inconclusive.

Source: Case Reports in Oncology

DOI: 10.1159/000549943