Adrenal Cancer

What are the Adrenal Glands?

The adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped organs located on top of each kidney. Each adrenal gland is made up of two main sections:

• Adrenal Cortex: The outer portion of the gland that produces steroid hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone.
• Adrenal Medulla: The inner portion that produces hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, which play a key role in the body’s stress response.

Together, these hormones help regulate important functions such as blood pressure, metabolism, immune system activity, and how the body processes sugar and fat.

What Causes Adrenal Cancer?

Adrenal cancer develops when cells in the adrenal gland begin growing uncontrollably, forming a malignant tumor. Although the exact cause is often unclear, certain inherited genetic conditions can increase the risk. These may include syndromes such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome and multiple endocrine neoplasia.

Adrenal cancer is rare and can occur at any age, but it is diagnosed more frequently in adults between the ages of 40 and 50.

What are the Warning Signs of Adrenal Cancer?

In its early stages, adrenal cancer may not produce noticeable symptoms. As the tumor grows or begins producing excess hormones, patients may experience symptoms such as:

• Sudden or unexplained weight changes

• Pain in the abdomen or lower back

• Muscle weakness

• Changes in blood pressure or blood sugar levels

• Excess hair growth or other hormonal changes

• Loss of appetite

• Fatigue or nausea

Because adrenal tumors can affect hormone levels in different ways, symptoms may vary from person to person. Even subtle or unusual changes should be evaluated by a medical professional to determine the underlying cause.

How is Adrenal Cancer Diagnosed?

To diagnose adrenal cancer, your care team may use several tests to evaluate both the adrenal glands and hormone levels in the body. These tests may include:

• Hormone testing: Blood and urine tests help measure hormone levels and determine whether the adrenal gland is producing excess hormones.

• Imaging studies: Scans such as CT scans or MRI provide detailed images of the adrenal glands and help identify tumors or abnormal growths.

• Biopsy or surgical sampling: In some cases, a tissue sample may be collected to confirm whether cancer cells are present.

An accurate and timely diagnosis allows your doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan and can improve the likelihood of successful treatment.

How is Adrenal Cancer Treated?

Treatment for adrenal cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the symptoms you are experiencing, and your overall health. Your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to address the tumor and manage hormone-related symptoms.

Surgery
When possible, surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment for adrenal cancer. This procedure, called an adrenalectomy, involves removing the affected adrenal gland and may offer the best chance for a cure when the cancer is detected early.

Medication and Additional Therapies
In some cases, additional treatments may be recommended to manage the disease or prevent it from spreading. These may include:

• Targeted drug therapy, including medications that block excess hormone production

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for advanced or metastatic cancer

• Ongoing follow-up care to monitor hormone levels and check for signs of recurrence

Your care team will work closely with you to determine the most effective treatment approach and provide ongoing support throughout your care.