Hyperplasia of Adrenal Medulla and Extraadrenal Paraganglia



Hyperplasia of Adrenal Medulla and Extraadrenal Paraganglia


Arthur S. Tischler, MD





Key Facts


Etiology/Pathogenesis



  • AMH is common in multiple endocrine neoplasia 2A and 2B; absent or very rare in other pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma syndromes


  • Carotid body hyperplasia occurs in humans and animals living at high altitude; also reported in pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and cyanotic heart disease


Macroscopic Features



  • Adrenal medulla normally confined to central region (“body”) of gland



    • Medullary hyperplasia often identifiable by gross extension of gray medullary tissue into alae and tail


Microscopic Pathology



  • Nodules can occur with little or no diffuse hyperplasia







This adrenal from a patient with MEN2A shows diffuse medullary expansion image, a well-defined nodule image, and an ill-defined early nodularity image. (Courtesy R. DeLellis, MD.)






This H&E of an adrenal from a patient with MEN2A shows diffuse expansion image, a well-defined nodule image, and an ill-defined area of early nodularity image.

Only gold members can continue reading. Log In or Register to continue

Related posts:

  1. Protocol for the Examination of Specimens From Patients With Carcinoma of the Thyroid Gland
  2. Malignant Melanoma, Adrenal Glands
  3. Molecular Factors Index
  4. Familial Paraganglioma-Pheochromocytoma

Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Tags:
Jul 6, 2016 | Posted by in PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINE | Comments Off on Hyperplasia of Adrenal Medulla and Extraadrenal Paraganglia

Full access? Get Clinical Tree

 Get Clinical Tree app for offline access