adénomates

Adénomates, in medical terminology, refer to adenomas, benign tumors that arise from glandular epithelium. The plural adénomates is encountered in some languages and older literature; in modern English the standard plural forms are adenomas or adenomata.

Adenomas can develop in many organs where glandular tissue is present, including the colon, liver, pancreas, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and kidneys. They are usually well-differentiated and grow slowly, often forming discrete masses that are encapsulated or pedunculated. Histologically they resemble normal glands but differ in architecture and cellular organization.

Clinical presentation varies by location. Many adenomas are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on imaging or during endoscopy. Symptoms, when they occur, may reflect hormonal activity (for example, pituitary adenomas secreting prolactin or growth hormone) or mass effects (compression of adjacent structures). Diagnosis relies on imaging studies and, importantly, histopathology obtained through biopsy or surgical excision. In the colorectum, adenomas (polyps) are considered precancerous lesions, and assessment of size, histology, and dysplasia guides management.

Treatment depends on location, size, and characteristics. Small, asymptomatic adenomas may be monitored; larger or hormonally active tumors are usually removed surgically or by endoscopic means, when feasible. Some organs require specific approaches (eg, liver or pituitary adenomas). Prognosis is generally favorable after complete removal, but recurrence or multifocal disease can occur, and certain adenomas carry a higher risk of malignant transformation, especially some colorectal adenomas.