Laparoscopic resection of an adrenal oncocytic neoplasm: report of a case and review of the literature

Introduction Oncocytic adrenal neoplasms are rare and mostly benign lesions. Available literature supports indication for a surgical resection, but criteria to predict aggressive behavior are unreliable, thus making decision of surgical approach (laparotomy versus laparoscopy), and extent of resection, difficult to define. Presentation of case This is the case of a 46-year-old male, with an incidental finding of a 10 cm asymptomatic tumor in the left adrenal gland identified by MRI, performed in the setting of the initial assessment of liver steatosis. Adrenal hormone levels were in the normal range, thus, a CT-guided needle biopsy was performed and showed an adrenocortical oncocytic neoplasm. A laparoscopic left adrenalectomy was performed sparing the adjacent left kidney. Histological examination of the resected tumor showed a 10 cm oncocytic adrenocortical neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential with negative resection margins. A follow-up MRI was scheduled at six months after surgery, and no recurrence was found. Conclusions Although rare, oncocytic neoplasms should be included in the differential diagnosis of adrenal “incidentalomas”. Determination of their malignant potential is difficult in the preoperatory setting. Final diagnosis is based on histological analysis of the whole surgical specimen. Laparoscopic complete excision with negative resection margins is feasible and safe.