Adrenocortical Carcinoma: Symptoms & Treatments

Adrenocortical Carcinoma is a rare form of cancer that affects the adrenal cortex, the outer layer of the two adrenal glands located on top of each kidney. Knowing the signs and symptoms of this disease can help in early detection and make treatment more successful.

What is Adrenocortical Carcinoma?

Adrenocortical Carcinoma is rare cancer affecting the outer layer of the two adrenal glands (located on top of each kidney). This condition occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control in the adrenal cortex, which can cause tumors and other health issues. Symptoms typically develop over time, but in some cases, this type of cancer is asymptomatic. It may not be detected until it has progressed or spread to other locations in the body.

Identifying Early Signs and Symptoms

Those with Adrenocortical Carcinoma may experience various signs and symptoms depending on their health situation. Some of the most common symptoms of this cancer include weight gain, fatigue, high blood pressure, excessive thirst and urination, upper abdominal discomfort or swelling, skin discoloration, increased facial hair in women, frequent infections or illness, and other changes in hormone levels. Seeking medical advice if you notice these signs or symptoms is essential. An early diagnosis can significantly improve the overall outcome for those affected by this rare type of cancer.

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How is Adrenocortical Carcinoma Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Adrenocortical Carcinoma involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging studies, and tissue analysis. Usually, the first step is for the doctor to take your medical history and conduct a physical exam. During this exam, imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs will be ordered to identify any suspicious areas in the body. If further testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis, a tissue sample (a biopsy) may be removed from the area to look for abnormal cancer cells. Upon confirmation of diagnosis, further testing will be conducted to determine whether cancer has spread within the body.

Treatment Options for Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Treatment options for Adrenocortical Carcinoma may range from surgery to chemotherapy. Surgery is the primary treatment option, aiming to remove as much excess tissue as possible. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery to reduce the size of a tumor. Chemotherapy may also be recommended. However, it is usually not recommended for this type of cancer due to its rare nature and unpredictable response rate. Other treatments, such as hormone therapy and immunotherapy, are available for treating Adrenocortical Carcinoma.

Monitoring Your Treatment Progress

Your doctor will monitor your progress with frequent imaging and blood tests to ensure your treatment is effective and to identify any signs of recurrence. Addressing any recurrences as soon as possible is crucial to optimize the patient’s long-term outlook. Depending on the severity of each case, a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and other treatments may be used to manage Adrenocortical Carcinoma. Your doctor will provide more information about the most appropriate treatment for your diagnosis.