Computed tomographic evaluation of the adrenal gland in the preoperative assessment of bronchogenic carcinoma.

Abstract

Patients (110) with proved bronchogenic carcinoma who were undergoing computed tomography (CT) of the thorax also underwent CT of the adrenals to determine the value of routine preoperative assessment of this gland. Sixteen adrenal masses were found in 11 patients. In 5 patients the adrenals were the only site of metastasis. CT of the adrenals should be performed routinely when the thorax is examined preoperatively in patients with non-oat-cell bronchogenic carcinoma to improve patient selection for thoracotomy.