The place of imaging in exploration of the adrenal glands

Currently, the major method of adrenal gland imaging is computed tomography. This method allows demonstration of normal adrenals and the diagnosis of adrenal masses (if these are greater than 1 cm in diameter). The examination should be directed by clinical signs and known laboratory investigations. Computed tomography is therefore the first line investigation to perform. Certain lesions may be better demonstrated by other methods: MRI and MIBG scintigraphy offer a greater specificity in the investigation of pheochromocytomas. In addition, scintigraphy can identify possible ectopic tumours or recurrences. - Selective catheterisation of the adrenal veins allows aldosterone and cortisone secretions to be assayed. There remains the problem of the incidental finding of adrenal masses in either an asymptomatic patient or in the context of investigation of spread of a known cancer. These lesions may benefit from diagnostic percutaneous guided biopsy