Adrenal or Pancreatic Tumors

Adrenal and pancreatic tumors in children are rare but serious conditions that require specialized pediatric surgical care. These tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and are often discovered through symptoms related to hormone production, abdominal pain, or imaging done for other reasons.

The adrenal glands sit above the kidneys and are responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and stress response. The pancreas helps with digestion and blood sugar control. Tumors in either organ can disrupt these critical functions, causing a range of symptoms depending on the tumor’s type and location.

Types of Tumors

Adrenal Tumors:

  • Adrenocortical tumors – may cause overproduction of cortisol or other hormones
  • Pheochromocytomas – release excess adrenaline, often causing high blood pressure, sweating, and headaches
  • Neuroblastomas – a common childhood cancer that can originate in the adrenal glands

Pancreatic Tumors:

  • Solid pseudopapillary tumors (SPT) – often benign but may grow large
  • Insulinomas and gastrinomas – rare, functional tumors that affect hormone levels
  • Pancreatoblastomas – a rare pediatric pancreatic cancer

Early detection and precise diagnosis are essential to determine whether the tumor is functional (hormone-producing) or non-functional, benign or malignant.

Symptoms and Presentation

Symptoms vary by tumor type, size, and hormone activity. Some tumors are discovered incidentally, while others present with noticeable issues such as:

  • Persistent high blood pressure
  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  • Unexplained weight gain or loss
  • Abdominal pain or a palpable mass
  • Hormonal symptoms like early puberty or mood swings
  • Low blood sugar or gastrointestinal symptoms

Diagnosis and Testing

Evaluation typically begins with a physical exam and detailed medical history, followed by:

  • Blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels
  • Ultrasound or CT/MRI scans to locate and characterize the tumor
  • MIBG scans or PET scans for tumors like neuroblastoma
  • Biopsy or surgical resection for definitive diagnosis

A multidisciplinary team — including pediatric surgeons, oncologists, endocrinologists, and radiologists — often works together to develop a treatment plan.

Treatment Options

Most adrenal and pancreatic tumors in children are treated surgically, often using minimally invasive or laparoscopic techniques when appropriate. Treatment may also include:

  • Complete tumor removal
  • Lymph node sampling or biopsy
  • Hormone therapy for functional tumors
  • Chemotherapy or radiation for malignant tumors such as neuroblastoma or pancreatoblastoma

Long-term follow-up is essential to monitor for recurrence, hormone regulation, and overall development.

Divisions Involved in Your Care

Procedures We Use

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Many of these tumors in children are benign, but due to their potential to grow or affect hormone levels, they often still require surgical removal.

Symptoms may include high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, weight changes, low blood sugar, or signs of early puberty. These are caused by excess hormone secretion from the tumor.

Diagnosis involves hormone testing, imaging (ultrasound, MRI, or CT), and possibly nuclear medicine scans. Surgery may be needed to confirm the tumor type.

Surgery is the main treatment for most adrenal or pancreatic tumors in children. Even benign tumors are often removed to relieve symptoms or prevent complications.

Only malignant tumors — like neuroblastoma or pancreatoblastoma — may require chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment plans depend on tumor type and staging.

With early diagnosis and appropriate care, many children recover fully. Ongoing monitoring ensures hormone balance and checks for tumor recurrence.