Adrenal Carcinoma

Adrenal carcinoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that starts in the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small organs that sit on top of each kidney. They produce hormones that help control blood pressure, metabolism, and stress response. When cancer develops in these glands, it can disrupt normal hormone production.

This type of cancer affects about 1 to 2 people per million each year. It can occur at any age but is most common in adults between 40 and 50 years old. Children under 5 also have a higher risk. Adrenal carcinoma often grows quickly and may spread to other parts of the body.

Many adrenal carcinomas produce excess hormones, especially cortisol. This hormone overproduction causes noticeable symptoms that bring people to the doctor. Early detection through hormone testing and imaging can improve treatment outcomes. Understanding your hormone levels is an important first step in identifying potential adrenal problems.

Symptoms of adrenal carcinoma vary depending on which hormones the tumor produces. Some people notice symptoms from excess hormones, while others have symptoms from the tumor pressing on nearby organs.

• Rapid weight gain, especially in the face, neck, and belly
• Muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass
• Purple or pink stretch marks on the skin
• High blood pressure that is hard to control
• High blood sugar or new onset diabetes
• Unusual hair growth on the face and body in women
• Irregular or absent menstrual periods in women
• Enlarged breasts or decreased sex drive in men
• Abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness
• A lump or mass you can feel in the abdomen

Some people have no symptoms in the early stages, especially if the tumor is small and not producing excess hormones. These tumors may be found accidentally during imaging tests for other health issues.

The exact cause of adrenal carcinoma is not fully understood. Most cases occur randomly without a clear trigger. However, certain genetic conditions increase the risk. Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and Lynch syndrome all raise the likelihood of developing this cancer. People with these inherited conditions should have regular checkups with their doctor.

Environmental factors and lifestyle choices do not appear to play a major role in adrenal carcinoma risk. Unlike many other cancers, smoking and diet have not been strongly linked to this disease. The cancer develops when cells in the adrenal gland develop mutations that cause them to grow out of control. These cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to distant organs like the liver and lungs.

Diagnosing adrenal carcinoma starts with blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels. Cortisol testing is especially important because many adrenal tumors produce excess cortisol. Your doctor may also test for other adrenal hormones like aldosterone and androgens. High levels of these hormones can point to an adrenal tumor that needs further investigation.

After hormone testing, imaging scans help confirm the diagnosis. CT scans and MRI scans show the size and location of the tumor. A biopsy is sometimes needed to examine tumor cells under a microscope. Rite Aid offers cortisol testing through our flagship panel, which can help identify hormone imbalances that may indicate adrenal problems. Getting tested regularly helps catch changes early when treatment is most effective.

Treatment for adrenal carcinoma depends on the stage of cancer and whether it has spread. Here are the main approaches:

• Surgery to remove the tumor and affected adrenal gland is the primary treatment for localized cancer
• Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors
• Chemotherapy medications like mitotane to slow cancer growth
• Medications to block excess hormone production and control symptoms
• Hormone replacement therapy if both adrenal glands are removed or damaged
• Regular monitoring with blood tests and imaging to check for cancer recurrence
• Clinical trials for new treatments when standard options are not effective

Lifestyle support can help during treatment. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein helps maintain muscle mass. Gentle exercise preserves strength and reduces fatigue. Working with an oncologist who specializes in adrenal cancer gives you the best chance for successful treatment. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for improving outcomes with this aggressive cancer.