Adrenal gland injury after blunt abdominal trauma: Two case series and review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction: Adrenal gland injury (AGI) is a rare form of trauma that is often misdiagnosed, especially if isolated.

Presentation of case: Herein we describe two rare cases of adrenal hematoma (AH) and adrenal contusion due to blunt abdominal trauma. A 33-year-old Caucasian male who was transported to the emergency department after a low-speed motorbike accident and a 69-year old Caucasian female who fell from 50 cm height. Both where complaining of intense pain in the right flank. Neither were under anti-coagulant or anti-platelet therapy. In both patients thoracoabdominal CE-CT revealed the injury.

Discussion: AGI is an uncommon finding in blunt trauma and isolated adrenal injuries usually result from low force accidents. Treatment is most commonly conservative, but depends on patient's status. In Greece, to our knowledge, these are the first such cases reported in adults.

Conclusion: Diagnosis needs high level of clinical suspicion.

Keywords: Adrenal gland injury; Adrenal hematoma; Blunt abdominal trauma.