It is a neuroendocrine tumour ( NET), which happens when cells in adrenal glands change and grow out of control, creating a lump called a tumour. You have two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney. These glands produce hormones that regulates body functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and stress.
Symptoms
- Abdominal pain
- Muscle Cramps
- Weight loss
- High Blood Pressure
- Hormonal changes like irregular periods or excessive hair growth
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of adrenal cancer is often unknown.
Genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, predispose individuals to develop this cancer. Other risk factors may include a family history of adrenal cancer, age (typically diagnosed in adults between 30 and 50 years old), and gender (slightly more common in women).
Diagnosis
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- PET scans
- Biopsy
Treatment
It depends on factors such as the cancer stage, the extent of its spread, and the individual’s health.
- Surgery is considered as a primary treatment, involving the removal of the tumour and affected adrenal gland(s).
- If cancer has spread beyond the adrenal glands, advanced treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or hormone therapy is recommended to help shrink tumours, kill cancer cells, or control hormone levels.
Follow-Up Care
After treatment, patients will require regular follow-up appointments to monitor for any signs of recurrence or complications. It involves imaging tests, blood tests, and physical examinations to ensure that the cancer has not returned and to address any lingering side effects of treatment.
Adrenal cancer is a rare and severe type of cancer which starts in the adrenal glands. It’s hard to treat because it is often found late. Treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, but it’s tough to cure, especially if it’s advanced. Doctors must keep a close watch on patients to catch any signs of cancer returning. We need more research to find better ways to treat it.
