Large Adrenal Tumor in an 11-Year-Old Labrador: Biopsy and Treatment Risks
by jill
(phoenix arizona)
Reader Question
Our 11 yr. Old lab has just been diagnosed with a fairly large adrenal gland tumor. Her adrenal gland which should normally be 20mm is 96mm and pushing against her kidney. The other adrenal gland could not be seen indicating atrophy from what I am told. After reading about the surgery, I don't feel that the reward is worth the risk although it has not metastasized, meaning its still in its little bubble so speak, what are the risks associated with a biopsy of it? It is my understanding that without treatment we could be looking at less than 200 days if it is cancerous. If it is not cancerous With treatment we could be looking at 1-2 years and half that time if it is. The treatment sounds pretty horrible itself what risks are associated with treatment & what kind of life would be living at that point?
Answer from Our Team
A biopsy of an adrenal mass is usually not recommended, because these glands sit next to major blood vessels, so bleeding is a risk, and some adrenal tumors release hormones that can cause dangerous blood pressure spikes. Vets usually rely on imaging, especially CT, and hormone tests instead.
Surgery is the only cure, and its risks depend on the tumor's size and whether it invades blood vessels. If it's making cortisol, daily medication can control signs without surgery. A referral to a specialist surgeon or internist can give you realistic figures for her case, so you can choose the path that gives her the best quality of life.
See adrenal gland problems in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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