Adrenal gland ultrasound is a specialized sonographic examination of the adrenal glands, which sit atop each kidney and produce hormones including cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline. Sonographers evaluate adrenal morphology for masses, incidentalomas, adenomas, adrenocortical carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma (particularly in pediatric patients), and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. Ultrasound is often the first-line imaging modality for adrenal evaluation, particularly in pediatric patients and for characterizing incidentally discovered adrenal lesions. Right adrenal visualization is generally easier due to the echogenic liver serving as an acoustic window; the left adrenal can be more challenging due to overlying bowel gas.
Body Location: Adrenal Glands
Medical Specialty: Radiology
Related Credentials: RDMS (AB), RDMS (PS)