adenoom

Adenoom is the Dutch term for an adenoma, a benign tumor derived from glandular epithelium. Adenomas arise from gland-forming tissue and can develop in several organs where glands are present. They are typically slow-growing and non-invasive, though some forms may cause symptoms due to hormonal activity or compression of surrounding structures.

Common sites include the colon, pituitary, liver, kidney, adrenal gland, and thyroid. Colonic adenomas (polyps) are common and are regarded as precursors to colorectal cancer, particularly when large or villous. Pituitary adenomas may secrete hormones or cause headaches and vision changes. Hepatic and renal adenomas are often incidental findings; their course depends on size and hormonal activity. Adrenal and thyroid adenomas are usually nonfunctioning but may occasionally alter hormone levels.

Diagnosis relies on location-specific methods. Colonoscopy with polypectomy and histopathology is standard for colonic adenomas; MRI or CT is used for suspected pituitary, hepatic, or other adenomas, often with hormonal assays to assess function.

Treatment is tailored to the lesion and may involve watchful waiting for small, nonfunctioning adenomas; endoscopic or surgical removal for symptomatic lesions; and medical therapy for hormonally active adenomas (for example, dopamine agonists for prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas).

Prognosis is generally favorable, as most adenomas are benign. The main exception is colonic adenomas, which can progress to cancer if not removed; risk rises with size and villous features. Epidemiology varies by site; colonic adenomas are common in older adults, pituitary adenomas occur in a subset of people, and hepatic adenomas are more frequent in women of reproductive age.