Understanding Endocrine and Metabolic Conditions

Adrenal cancer is a rare type of cancer that originates in the adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys. These glands produce hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline, and noradrenaline, all of which play crucial roles in regulating various bodily functions. Adrenal cancer, also known as adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), typically affects the outer layer of the adrenal glands, known as the adrenal cortex.

Symptoms can vary based on whether the cancer is producing hormones and which hormones are involved. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal or back pain
• Fatigue
• High blood pressure
• Excessive hair growth or other signs of virilization (if the tumor produces excess male hormones, such as testosterone)
• Cushing’s syndrome (when there is an overproduction of cortisol, leading to symptoms like round face, high blood pressure, and skin changes)
• Increased thirst and urination (in cases of aldosterone production)

The exact cause of adrenal cancer is not well understood, but several factors can increase the risk, including:

• Genetic syndromes such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which increase the likelihood of developing adrenal tumors.
• Previous history of certain cancers, such as colon cancer or kidney cancer.
• Family history of endocrine tumors.

• Blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels and identify any imbalances.
• Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI, to visualize the tumor and assess its size and spread.
• Biopsy to confirm cancerous cells may be required if the tumor appears malignant.

• Surgery is the primary treatment for adrenal cancer, and often involves removing the entire adrenal gland (adrenalectomy). If cancer has spread, surgery may be more complex.
• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used after surgery if there is a high risk of the cancer returning or if it has spread.
• Hormone therapy may be used to block the overproduction of hormones, especially in cases where the tumor is functional and secretes excess cortisol or aldosterone

Personalized
treatment plans
with endocrine specialists

Telehealth support
for remote consultations and ongoing care

Access to the latest testing
to assess hormone levels and monitor the effectiveness of treatments

Post-surgical care and hormone management
to help patients adjust to life after surgery