Can benign adrenal tumors become malignant?

Benign adrenal tumors usually do not turn into malignant ones, but they still need close attention and regular checkups.

Adrenal tumors are abnormal growths that occur in the adrenal glands. Most are benign, such as adenomas; malignant tumors are less common. Benign tumors generally grow slowly and do not spread, while malignant tumors may grow rapidly and metastasize to other organs. There is no evidence from current scientific research that benign tumors will naturally evolve into malignant tumors, but some benign tumors may have the function of secreting hormones, leading to an imbalance in hormone levels and posing certain risks to physical health.

How adrenal tumors are treated depends on the specific type and whether they cause symptoms. Some benign tumors do not secrete hormones and are stable in size, so they usually only require regular imaging reviews. If the tumor secretes too much hormones and causes symptoms such as high blood pressure, weight gain, or abnormal hair growth, it may require medication or surgical removal. Malignant tumors usually require active intervention with a combination of surgery and other treatments, such as chemotherapy.

For patients with adrenal tumors, it is recommended to regularly monitor tumor size, secretory function, and physical changes. If you feel related symptoms or find abnormalities, you should consult a specialist in time to avoid delaying the disease. In daily life, pay attention to healthy eating, moderate exercise, and avoid excessive mental stress, which will help maintain body balance and reduce potential health risks.