Published online Aug 6, 2021. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i22.6552
Peer-review started: April 9, 2021
First decision: April 23, 2021
Revised: May 2, 2021
Accepted: May 15, 2021
Article in press: May 15, 2021
Published online: August 6, 2021
Adrenal myelolipoma is a rare, benign, non-functioning mass that occurs in the adrenal gland. It is composed of an admixture of hematopoietic elements and mature adipose tissue, similar to bone marrow. Even at large sizes, adrenal myelolipomas are usually asymptomatic and often incidentally found by ultrasonography or computed tomography (CT) scan. This paper describes an unusual case of adrenal myelolipoma presenting as flank pain.
A 50-year-old male with severe right flank pain underwent a CT scan revealing a huge mass extending into the suprarenal space. The mass showed a fat component with retroperitoneal hemorrhage. The tumor was treated laparoscopically, and pathologic examination revealed features of myelolipoma originating from the adrenal gland.
Adrenal myelolipomas are generally asymptomatic and can be treated conservatively. However, rupture and hemorrhage of the tumor can cause symptoms requiring surgical removal.
Core Tip: Adrenal myelolipomas are rare, benign, non-functioning masses that are generally asymptomatic. They can be managed conservatively, but in symptomatic cases with rupture or hemorrhage, surgical removal may be required. This article presents a rare case of adrenal myelolipoma rupture requiring laparoscopic excision with a review of literature on this subject.