Adrenal Cancer

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Adrenal Cancer
Last Updated: 01/10/2008
Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Adrenal cancer is a rare disease that originates in the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and consist of two parts that function separately. The first part is referred to as the cortex (outer layer). The second part is referred to as the medulla (inner area). Nearly all adrenal tumors are benign (non-cancerous) and therefore do not require treatment.

The most common type of adrenal cancer is called adrenocortical carcinoma. Adrenocortical carcinoma develops in the adrenal cortex and may produce symptoms related to increased hormone production, if it is a functioning tumor. Non-functioning adrenal cancer tumors do not produce hormones and may cause pain from pressure applied to the abdominal organs.

A second type of adrenal cancer is called pheochromocytoma which is an extremely rare type of cancer that originates in cells that produce epinephrine and norepinephrine. This form of adrenal cancer is most prevalent among those in their 30's and 40's.

Neuroblastoma is the third type of adrenal cancer. This adrenal cancer develops in the adrenal medulla and typically originates in undeveloped nerve cells. Abdominal pain and bone pain are usually symptoms experienced with neuroblastoma. This type of cancer generally appears in infants and children.

Approximately 1 out of 1 million people worldwide develop adrenal cancer. What causes adrenal cancer is unknown. It is believed that sometimes heredity plays a role, so if there is a diagnosis of adrenal gland cancer in your family, you may want to consider genetic testing.

Adrenal cancer - Signs and Symptoms
Although highly unlikely, because those diagnosed rarely exhibit symptoms, it is possible to experience the following:

Fever
Abdominal mass
Weight loss
Abdominal pain
Always feeling full


Syndromes Associated with Adrenal Cancer
If you have a functioning adrenocortical tumor that produces excess cortisol, it could develop into Cushing's syndrome. Cortisol, also referred to as hydrocortisone, is the main circulating steroid hormone of the cortex. Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder that is caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Cortisol performs vital tasks in the body such as maintaining blood pressure and controlling the function of your cardiovascular system. In addition, it makes fatty acids available for metabolic use.

Adrenal cancer symptoms associated with Cushing's syndrome include:

Severe acne
High blood pressure
Weakness
Hirsutism
Amenorrhea
Slowed growth rate in children
Osteoporosis
Abdominal stretch marks
Another syndrome that can develop is called Conn's syndrome. Conn's syndrome is a disease that involves excessive production of aldosterone. Aldosterone is a steroid that is secreted by the adrenal gland. It regulates your electrolyte balance and is considered the most potent hormone. Conn's syndrome is caused by increased aldosterone production.

Adrenal cancer symptoms associated with this may include:

Low potassium levels
High blood pressure
Frequent urination
Excessive thirst


Adrenal Cancer Treatment Options
There are various treatment options for adrenal cancer. One of the most commonly used treatment options for adrenal cancer is surgery. There are four types of surgery that can be performed to remove both benign and malignant adrenal cancer tumors. The procedure your doctor will use will depend on the type and size of the tumor and also your individual needs.

Posterior Surgery - typically used to remove small, benign tumors, your doctor will make an incision in your back just above the kidneys.
Transabdominal Surgery - in this procedure, an incision is made in your abdomen so the doctor can inspect nearby blood vessels and organs for any signs of cancer. It also allows your doctor to remove any nearby tissue that might be directly involved with the tumor.
Thoracoabdominal Surgery - this is usually the procedure of choice if you a large, malignant adrenal tumors. Your doctor will make a large incision around the cancerous area so he/she has an expanded view of the tissue that surrounds the tumor.
Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy - in this procedure, a fiber optic scope is inserted through a tiny incision made by your doctor in your abdominal cavity. It is a less invasive procedure and therefore generally causes less pain than other approaches. Thankfully most adrenal cancers can be removed using this technique.
Radiation therapy is also a treatment option for some adrenal cancer patients. The high-energy rays used in radiation therapy destroy cancerous cells and reduce the tumor's size. It is most often utilized for adrenal cancer that has already started to spread. It is also a treatment that be used in conjunction with chemotherapy.

Adrenal Cancer Treatment at CTCA
The doctors and caregivers at Cancer Treatment Centers of America know how emotionally devastating a diagnosis of adrenal cancer can be, and make it our goal to ensure that you are as comfortable and informed as possible during this difficult time. We work with you to enrich your adrenal cancer treatment by not only offering the most up-to-date traditional treatments, but also by complementing them with new therapies designed to treat adrenal cancer using a whole-body approach.

At CTCA you and your healing are at the center of our hearts, minds and actions every day. If you are looking for an adrenal cancer treatment center that treats more than just your cancer, Cancer Treatment Centers of America may be exactly what you are looking for. To learn more about our integrated approach to cancer treatment, contact us today at 800-615-3055 and speak with one of our Oncology Information Specialists. They can help you decide if CTCA is the right treatment facility for you.

Additional Cancer Information and Resources
Don't miss this additional kidney cancer information. Click on the links to the right to learn more about cancer treatment at CTCA or call 800-641-9710 to discuss your treatment options with one of our Oncology Information Specialists.

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