Cardiovascular and metabolic consequences in patients with asymptomatic adrenal adenomas

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The incidence of adrenal tumors has increased over the past 20 years, most of which are incidentally discovered nonfunctioning adenomas (NFA) and tumors with mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS). This review aimed to summarize recent progress in understanding cardiometabolic risk in patients with NFA and MACS and to provide updates on the effect of treatment on improving outcomes in this population. RECENT FINDINGS: NFA and MACS are associated with adverse cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic derangements, which are likely mediated by excessive glucocorticoid secretion. Recent studies showed significantly higher prevalence of hypertension, impaired glucose metabolism, obesity, and dyslipidemia in patients with NFA and MACS. Adrenalectomy may improve comorbidities in selected patients. SUMMARY: Asymptomatic adrenal adenomas are common and are associated with adverse cardiometabolic changes. In selected patients, adrenalectomy may reduce cardiometabolic risk and improve clinical outcomes.