Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare and aggressive cancer of the cortex of the adrenal glands. Here's a straightforward overview of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Adrenocortical carcinoma is not well understood. However, certain factors may increase the risk of developing this rare cancer. These factors may include:
Individuals may inherit genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing adrenocortical carcinoma if they have a genetic predisposition. Adrenocortical carcinoma is associated with certain hereditary syndromes, including Li-Fraumeni syndrome and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.
Radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvis may increase the risk of developing adrenocortical carcinoma later in life.
In adults, adrenocortical carcinoma is most prevalent between the ages of 30 and 50, although it can occur at any age.
Studies suggest that women are slightly more likely to develop adrenocortical carcinoma than men.
Symptoms of adrenocortical carcinoma vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the tumor and whether it produces excess hormones. Common symptoms include:
If the tumor grows large enough to press on nearby organs or structures, abdominal pain may occur.
Despite normal eating habits or appetite, weight loss may occur unintentionally.
The effects of cancer and its effects on the body may cause persistent fatigue or weakness.
An excess of hormones produced by adrenocortical carcinoma can cause symptoms such as high blood pressure (hypertension), irregular menstrual periods, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), or symptoms of Cushing's syndrome or Conn's syndrome, depending on what type of hormone it produces.
Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal fullness, or a palpable mass in the abdomen may also occur.
Adrenocortical carcinoma is diagnosed based on a medical history, physical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests.
Physical examination and medical history: An assessment of symptoms, medical history, and risk factors, followed by a physical examination for signs of adrenal tumors.
CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, or ultrasounds may be performed to visualize the adrenal glands and detect tumors or metastases.
Tests for hormone levels and imbalances associated with adrenocortical carcinoma may be performed with blood tests.
A tissue biopsy may be performed to obtain a sample of the tumor for microscopic examination by a pathologist to confirm a diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma.
The treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma will depend on the size and stage of the tumor, as well as the individual's overall health and preferences.
Adrenocortical carcinomas are often removed surgically, especially if they are localized and have not spread to other organs.
In addition to surgery, chemotherapy can be used before or after surgery to shrink tumors, destroy remaining cancer cells, or relieve symptoms.
In cases where surgery cannot completely remove a tumor, radiation therapy may be used to destroy cancer cells.
The use of targeted therapies, such as molecularly targeted drugs or immunotherapy, can inhibit the growth or spread of cancer cells in certain cases.
Since the exact cause of adrenocortical carcinoma is not fully understood, there are currently no specific preventive measures to avoid the development of the disease. When individuals with adrenocortical carcinoma are detected early and treated promptly, their outcomes may be improved. Individuals with a family history of adrenocortical carcinoma or genetic mutations associated with the disease may also benefit from genetic counseling and screening.
