Adrenal Nodule found on CT Scan

[Haileys Mom]

I had a ct scan in the ER recently and all came back well. However, as I read in my test results, it said 1.4 cm adrenal nodule  They said it does not need any follow up. I asked my primary dr about it and he said it doesn't need a follow up, but I am concerned it could be causing high cortisol. Should I get cortisol checked?

[SassyLassie]

Hello~For peace of mind, I would ask for a blood panel that tests your adrenal hormones, but I doubt if there is anything wrong, you doctor would have done more tests if he/she thought they were warranted.

[Haileys Mom]

Thanks so much! I followed the advice the previous poster and you gave me.  I did get the dr to test a few hormones. They were all normal. At this point, I will just move on and try not to worry so much about it. Take care!

[Barb135]

It wouldn’t hurt to get adrenal hormones tested, just to ease your mind but it’s unlikely the nodule will have much effect on them.   I have multiple bi-lateral (both adrenal glands) adrenal adenoids and although I get a CT periodically (every couple of years), they haven’t changed since they were found.   The latest CT was good again and they said I don’t need to get them imaged again, though I’m sure I will since I also have bi-lateral kidney cysts that have to be checked periodically, as well.  

All of that said - if you feel like your cortisol might be high,  it’s more likely that stress is causing it than the adrenal nodule.  

[Haileys Mom]

Thank you for your reply! I had the Dr check a few hormones and they were normal.
I'm glad all is well with you! Thanks for sharing your experience...it helps! You give great advice. Take care.

[Barb135]

If cortisol was one of the hormones tested via blood, it may not be completely accurate, especially if it was only tested once.  The best cortisol test is a 24 hr saliva test.  Cortisol is meant to rise/fall according to a diurnal (24 hr) schedule.  It's highest in the morning, as we're waking up and preparing for the day.  It should be lowest at night as we prepare for sleep.  Most doctors don't order the 24 hr test, they simply order a single morning test and if it's good, assume the rest of the day will be, as well.

That said, if you're feeling okay with what the doctors are telling you, you wouldn't need to do anything further.