CPT® Code 78075

Adrenal imaging, specifically targeting the cortex and/or medulla, is a diagnostic procedure utilized to visualize and assess the adrenal glands, which are situated above each kidney. These glands play a crucial role in hormone production, secreting vital hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens. The imaging process is essential for detecting or defining lesions that may be present in the adrenal glands. Lesions in the adrenal cortex are often non-functioning adenomas or metastatic tumors that can cause enlargement of the gland without necessarily increasing hormone production. In contrast, the adrenal medulla is responsible for the secretion of catecholamines, including epinephrine and norepinephrine. Masses found in the medulla are typically hyperfunctioning, with conditions such as pheochromocytomas and aldosteronomas being common. These tumors can lead to excessive hormone production, impacting the patient's health. For the diagnosis of suspected pheochromocytoma, a patient may receive an intravenous injection of the radioisotope Iodine-131, followed by a whole-body scan using computed tomography (CT) 24 to 72 hours later. Additionally, to accurately localize a pheochromocytoma, an injection of Indium-111 may be administered, either alone or in combination with I-131, with subsequent imaging performed 4 to 24 hours later via CT. The radioisotope I-131 can also be utilized to identify aldosteronomas and other hyperfunctioning tumors of the adrenal cortex. Furthermore, positron emission tomography (PET) scanning employs the radioisotope fluorine-18 to help differentiate between benign and malignant non-hyperfunctioning adrenal masses. The results of these imaging studies are interpreted by the physician, who provides a comprehensive written report detailing the findings.