Adrenal cancer, also known as adrenocortical carcinoma, is a rare cancer that originates in the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal gland located above each kidney. It is often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other conditions.
Adrenal cancer, also known as adrenocortical carcinoma, is a rare cancer that originates in the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal gland located above each kidney. It is often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other conditions.
Adrenal cancer can develop in one or both adrenal glands and may affect adults of any age, most commonly those in their 40s and 50s.
Common symptoms include:
Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine hormone tests, along with imaging studies such as CT, MRI, or PET scans to identify the tumor and evaluate its spread.
Surgical removal of the affected adrenal gland (adrenalectomy) is the primary treatment. If the cancer has spread to nearby organs such as the liver or kidney, affected portions may also be removed.
Post-surgery medications are often prescribed to lower the risk of recurrence and manage hormone levels.
Radiation therapy may be given after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and can also relieve symptoms from cancer that has spread to other organs such as bone.
For adrenal cancers that cannot be surgically removed or that recur, chemotherapy helps slow tumor progression and control symptoms.