Non-masslike calcification of both adrenal glands | Figure 1

Non-masslike calcification of both adrenal glands

Radiograph of the spine at the thoracolumbar junction shows non-masslike calcification of both adrenal glands. This appearance is typical in patients who have had a prior adrenal hemorrhage. Adrenal hemorrhage is most commonly a complication of birth. However, hemorrhage can also occur with infections such as with meningococcus, sepsis, or trauma.

More about this case

Similar cases

Coronal image from an abdominal CT shows calcifications in both #adrenal glands. Adrenal calcifications can be associated with tumors such as #neuroblastoma. Because there is no mass in this case, these adrenal calcifications are the result of prior #hemorrhage or #infection. Adrenal hemorrhage is a relatively common entity in neonates due to birth stress. #TummyTuesday.

Ultrasound of the right suprarenal region shows an enlarged adrenal gland with a cerebriform (multiple folds) configuration consistent with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is the most common cause of ambiguous genitalia. #TummyTuesday.

AP radiograph of the abdomen in a child shows non-masslike adrenal calcifications (arrows). Non-masslike adrenal calcifications occur as the result of adrenal hemorrhage during birth. Birth-related adrenal hemorrhage occurs due to the large size and increased vascularity of the adrenal glands which results in vulnerability of the adrenal gland to mechanical compression and changes in venous pressure during delivery. If the adrenal calcifications are mass-like or are more irregular, neuroblastoma must be considered. #TummyTuesday #AbdomenTuesday.

Radiograph of the abdomen shows enlargement and calcification of the adrenal glands. The adreniform shape is maintained. The findings are consistent with Wolman disease. Wolman disease is a genetic disorder where there is absence of the lysosomal acid lipase enzyme required to break down lipids. Patients characteristically present in infancy with abdominal distention, global developmental delay, and characteristic calcification of the adrenal glands on x-ray. Other entities can cause adrenal calcification including neuroblastoma and prior adrenal hemorrhage. #FridayQuizDay #FridayQuiz.