Adrenal Cancer

Adrenal Cancer

Adrenal cancer arises from the adrenal cortex and can be functional (hormone-secreting) or non-functional.

Functional tumors cause clinical syndromes (Cushing’s, virilization) while non-functional tumors often present late with mass effect or metastasis.

Early detection and complete surgical excision offer the best chance for cure; multidisciplinary care includes endocrine evaluation and consideration of mitotane or systemic therapy for advanced disease.

Overview And Clinical Background

Biology and clinical significance

Adrenocortical carcinoma is an uncommon but aggressive malignancy of the adrenal cortex.

Tumors may overproduce cortisol, androgens, or aldosterone, causing systemic endocrine disturbances that prompt investigation.

OriginMalignant transformation of adrenal cortical cells.

Functional statusMay secrete hormones leading to Cushingoid or virilizing features.

IncidenceRare — requires high suspicion when adrenal mass and endocrine changes coexist.

Symptoms, Signs And Presentation

Functional tumors cause hormonal syndromes (weight gain, hypertension, hirsutism), while non-functional tumors may present with abdominal pain or incidental imaging findings.

Systemic symptoms appear with large or metastatic disease.

Hormonal signsCushing’s features, new-onset severe hypertension, or virilization.

Mass effectFlank pain or fullness from a growing adrenal mass.

Advanced diseaseWeight loss, anorexia, or metastatic symptoms.

Diagnosis Methods And Investigations

Hormonal assays and imaging

Workup includes biochemical testing for cortisol, androgens, and aldosterone plus high-resolution imaging to characterize the mass.

PET/CT and biopsy in select cases help stage disease.

Hormone testingOvernight dexamethasone test, serum cortisol, and adrenal androgens.

ImagingCT or MRI to assess size, invasion, and metastatic spread.

StagingPET/CT and lab markers guide surgical planning and systemic therapy decisions.

Treatment Options And Surgical Techniques

Complete surgical resection (adrenalectomy) is the cornerstone for localized disease.

Adjuvant mitotane therapy or systemic chemotherapy is considered for high-risk or advanced tumors.

SurgeryOpen or laparoscopic adrenalectomy depending on tumor size and invasion.

Medical therapyMitotane for adrenolytic control; systemic chemo for unresectable disease.

Endocrine supportPerioperative hormone management and long-term endocrine follow-up.

Recovery, Risks And Prognosis

Prognosis depends on stage at diagnosis; complete resection offers the best outcomes.

Risks include surgical complications and endocrine imbalances that require vigilant follow-up and replacement therapies when needed.

Why Choose Us

CureU Healthcare provides integrated endocrine-oncology services with surgical expertise, precise hormonal testing, and multidisciplinary planning for perioperative and adjuvant care.

We prioritize safe complete resection and tailored systemic therapy when necessary.

Conclusion

Adrenal cancer is rare but treatable when caught early and managed by an experienced multidisciplinary team.

Timely surgery and targeted follow-up maximize the chance of durable control.