Case Study

07_00148 Holly S Adrenal mass

A 9-year-old SF Shepherd Mix with a history of pancreatitis was presented for evaluation of occasional vomiting, polydipsia. Physical examination was unremarkable. On urinalysis the SG was 1.016 and 3+ proteinuria was present. The only abnormality on CBC and serum biochemistry was hypoalbuminemia.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Left adrenal gland mass, appears resectable.
Adenocarcinoma versus pheochromocytoma are the primary differentials.
Serial blood pressure measurements and full adrenal gland panel would be ideal. No evidence of metastatic disease was noted.

Image Interpretation

The right adrenal gland was uniform at 3.54 x 0.6 cm. The left adrenal gland revealed a significantly mineralizing mass that measured 5.43 x 4.27 cm. The adrenal gland mass appeared to occupy the phrenic vein, yet it did not overtly enter into the vena cava. This still appears resectable. Given the mineralization this is likely adenocarcinoma or possible pheochromocytoma.