Abstract
ObjectiveTo evaluate the computed tomography characteristics of patients admitted with clinical suspicion of acute adrenal hemorrhage at three centers over a 3-year period and in whom that diagnosis was ultimately confirmed.Materials and MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis of computed tomography findings in patients with suspected acute adrenal hemorrhage. We included only those cases in which the diagnosis was confirmed. Patients with aortic rupture and retroperitoneal hemorrhage were excluded. The images were analyzed by an experienced radiologist and by two radiology residents.ResultsSix cases of unilateral adrenal hemorrhage (three on the left and three on the right) were analyzed. On computed tomography, each appeared as a rounded, oval mass altering the usual anatomy of the adrenal gland. The maximum diameter was 12.2 cm, and attenuation ranged from 45 to 70 HU. There was no appreciable contrast enhancement. No calcifications were observed.ConclusionAdrenal hemorrhage, albeit rare, is potentially fatal. Early diagnosis is essential. Therefore, recognition of the possible presentations of these lesions by radiologists may help prevent hemorrhage from progressing to adrenal insufficiency and death.
Highlights
Adrenal hemorrhage, albeit rare, is potentially fatal
Objective: To evaluate the computed tomography characteristics of patients admitted with clinical suspicion of acute adrenal hemorrhage at three centers over a 3-year period and in whom that diagnosis was confirmed
Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of computed tomography findings in patients with suspected acute adrenal hemorrhage
Summary
The adrenal glands are prone to hemorrhage, because of their abundant blood supply coming from three arteries that drain into a single vein, which may undergo vasoconstriction in response to the catecholamines excreted by the adrenal medulla[1]. This may occur in several conditions, including trauma, bleeding disorders, infection, stress, and bleeding from an adjacent adrenal tumor[2,3]. Up to 50% of patients with bilateral adrenal hemorrhage eventually develop adrenal insufficiency with an increased risk of death[6,7], making early diagnosis important. The recognition of bleeding secondary to adjacent tumors is important, 0100-3984 © Colégio Brasileiro de Radiologia e Diagnóstico por Imagem
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