[New signs for the echographic identification of the adrenal glands in children and adolescents].

Although the shape of the adrenal glands was found to vary according to the angle and position of the transducer, the most common appearance was that of a triangle, helmet or cap. This caplike appearance and the similarity in echo intensity make it difficult or even impossible to distinguish the adrenal glands from the upper pole of the kidney in many cases. By closely examining the approximate transition zone between adrenal gland and kidney, additional signs have been found that enable a better delineation of the adrenal glands. These may take the form of slight indentations ("waist form") or small, jutting edges ("step form"), seen in up to 42% of examinations. Further means of identification result from reflective interfaces at the base of the adrenal glands. These might include capsular veins or interposed fat ("vessel sign" and "reflective base"). These signs provide assistance in delineating and measuring the normal adrenal glands and make the detection of minor abnormalities possible.