ABSTRACT

The endocrine system consists of various specialist cells in a variety of richly vascularised ductless glands that synthesise and release hormones into the bloodstream. The neuroendocrine system involves neuroendocrine cells that receive nerve impulses to release neurohormones into the bloodstream. Neuroendocrine glands are found in almost every organ of the body. Nuclear imaging physicians and specialists in radiopharmaceutical therapy are important additional members of the endocrine surgery multidisciplinary team. The adrenal cortex represents 90% of the gland and is arranged in a zonal configuration. Cortisol secretion by the cells of the zona fasciculata is regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone, which is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. An asymptomatic adrenal mass detected on imaging not performed for suspected adrenal disease is termed an incidentaloma. Adrenalectomy is the standard of care for patients with unilateral tumours causing hormone excess.