Spironolactone bodies

Spironolactone bodies are seen in the cortex of the adrenal gland in the context of long-term spironolcatone use.

General

Etiology:

• Long-term use of spironolactone.

Note:

• Aldosterone antagonist.
• Commonly used anti-hypertensive medication.
• May be used to treat hypertension due to primary hyperaldosteronism due to adrenal pathology such as an aldosterone producing hyperplasia or adenoma.
• Other uses include treatment of adult acne harnessing an antiandrogenic activity.

Microscopic

Features:

• Location: zona glomerulosa (where aldosterone is produced).
• Appearance: eosinophilic spherical laminated whorls.

Images

• 

  SB - high mag. (WC/Nephron)

• 

  SB (circled) - cropped high mag. (WC/Nephron)

• 

  Adrenal Cortical Adenoma - Spironolactone Bodies (SKB)

• 

  Adrenal Nodular Hyperplasia - Spironolactone Bodies (SKB)

See also

• Adrenal gland.
• Drug reaction.