Skip to content

Acth Independent Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia 1 C1857451

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

A rare genetic condition causing both adrenal glands to enlarge and overproduce cortisol. Present from birth. Treatment usually involves medication to control hormone levels, with surgery considered in some cases.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
E34.9
ICD-11
5A00.0
Body system
endocrine
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fatigue or weight changes

(endocrine)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Hypertension

(endocrine)

Hypokalemia

(endocrine)

Hyperglycemia

(endocrine)

Moon face

(endocrine)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Endocrine management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Unilateral Adrenalectomy

Surgical removal of the larger or more active adrenal gland in macronodular hyperplasia may control cortisol excess when asymmetric involvement exists. Minimally invasive approaches are preferred when anatomically feasible.

surgical
3

Cortisol Synthesis Inhibition

Pharmacological inhibition of adrenal cortisol production using agents such as ketoconazole, metyrapone, or etomidate in severe cases. Often requires combination therapy for adequate cortisol control.

medication

Additional treatment options

Bilateral Adrenal-Sparing Surgery

Subtotal adrenalectomy removing hyperplastic tissue while preserving some adrenal function, potentially avoiding permanent adrenal insufficiency. Reserved for carefully selected patients with severe disease unresponsive to medical therapy.

surgical

Percutaneous Adrenal Ablation

Image-guided chemical or thermal ablation of hyperplastic adrenal tissue as a minimally invasive alternative for patients who are poor surgical candidates. May require multiple sessions for adequate treatment.

procedure

Serial Imaging and Biochemical Surveillance

Regular monitoring of adrenal gland size, nodule characteristics, and cortisol production through biochemical testing and imaging studies. Allows early identification of disease progression or inadequate response to therapy.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Acth Independent Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia 1 C1857451?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Endocrine Society Writing Committee. Treatment of ACTH-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia: Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021.

guideline2021View source →
2

Lacroix A, Bourdeau I, Bourlier M. Pathophysiology and management of ACTH-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia. Endocr Rev. 2020.

review2020View source →
3

Nomura R, Tanaka K, Yoshida S, et al. Unilateral adrenalectomy for ACTH-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia: a multicenter prospective study. Surgery. 2019.

clinical_trial2019View source →
4

Wang J, Chen L, Liu Q, et al. Comparative effectiveness of surgical approaches for ACTH-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia: systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Endocrinol. 2022.

meta_analysis2022View source →

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Acth Independent Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia 1 C1857451. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy