Adrenal ultrasound
adrenal gland ultrasound · adrenal ultrasound · adrenal and kidney ultrasound
The doctor looks at the small glands above your kidneys with ultrasound. They are often checked together with the kidneys.
For high blood pressure in young people, changes in adrenal hormones, or if a growth was found on other scans.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 20 minutes; the report is usually ready right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Usually 6 to 8 hours without food. Still water is fine. Check with the clinic.
- Gas. For 1 to 2 days before: less cabbage, beans, fizzy drinks, and dark rye bread.
- Medicines. Do not stop anything on your own, especially blood pressure medicines.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past CT, MRI, and ultrasound results
- Hormone test results
- Wipes
How it goes
- You lie on your back, then on your side
- Gel is put on your belly and sides
- The probe is placed under your ribs on the right and left
- Sometimes you are asked to take a deep breath and hold it
What you'll feel
- Cool gel and pressure from the probe under your ribs
- Holding your breath for a few seconds may feel unusual
Afterwards
- You can eat right away
- The report is usually ready right away
- Small adrenal glands are not always easy to see on ultrasound. The doctor may order a CT or MRI
Common questions
Why couldn't the adrenal gland be seen?
Normal adrenal glands are small and hide behind the ribs and bowel. It does not mean something is wrong with them.
Which is better, ultrasound or CT of the adrenals?
CT shows the adrenals more precisely. Ultrasound is a simple first step with no radiation. Your doctor decides what you need.