An ectopic adreocortical adenoma of the renal sinus: a case report and literature review

BACKGROUND: Ectopic adrenal tumors are very rare, especially in the renal sinus in adults. An unusual case of ectopic adrenal cortical adenoma in the right renal sinus is reported here. CASE PRESENTATION: This patient was a 37-year-old woman. She was admitted to our hospital for hypertension and bilateral limb weakness. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a mass in right renal sinus. It was initially considered a tumor of the renal pelvis. Further computed tomographic angiography (CTA) showed the mass to be located outside the renal pelvis. After adequate preoperative preparation (blood pressure control and serum potassium supplement), the patient underwent laparoscopic resection of retroperitoneal tumor. During the procedure, a soft tissue tumor 3.4*3.0 cm(2) in size with a golden color was found in the right renal sinus. The final immunohistochemistry examination showed an ectopic adreocortical adenoma. CONCLUSION: Ectopic adrenal tumors are rare in the renal sinus and difficult to diagnose and treat. Large and functional tumors should be treated with complete resection. The procedure is sometimes difficult for tumors located deep in the renal sinus. The decision to perform an open or minimally invasive surgery should be made according to the surgeon’s experience.