A noncancerous tumour or cyst that resembles glandular tissue and arises from the epithelium (the layer of cells that lines the inside of
organs).
Adenomas of endocrine glands can cause excessive hormone production, leading to disease.
For example, pituitary gland adenomas can result in acromegaly or Cushing’s syndrome.
A growth or cyst arising from the EPITHELIUM, a lining layer of cells on the inside of organs. Although usually benign, adenomas can, as they enlarge, press on adjacent tissue such as nerves or, in the case of an adenoma of the PITUITARY GLAND, on brain tissue, causing symptoms. Where adenomas arise in ENDOCRINE GLANDS, such as the adrenals, pancreas, pituitary and thyroid, they can provoke excessive production of the hormone normally produced by the gland. If an adenoma is causing or is likely to cause symptoms it is usually surgically removed (see also TUMOUR).
Benign tumour of glandular epithelium.
n. a benign tumour of epithelial origin that is derived from glandular tissue or exhibits clearly defined glandular structures. Adenomas may undergo malignant change (see adenocarcinoma). Some show recognizable tissue elements, such as fibrous tissue (fibroadenomas), while others, such as some bronchial adenomas, may produce active compounds giving rise to clinical syndromes (see carcinoid). Tumours in certain organs, including the pituitary gland, are often classified by their histological staining affinities, for example eosinophil, basophil, and chromophobe adenomas.
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