Adrenal carcinoma is a rare cancer that develops in the adrenal gland's exterior layer (cortex). It is most commonly found in children, with the majority of diagnoses involving pediatric patients under the age of five. However, adults can also develop the condition, which affects men and women equally.
Also known as adrenal gland cancer, adrenal carcinoma tends to grow very quickly. These tumors are usually hormone-producing, and abnormal hormone levels in the body can lead to a variety of symptoms. Weight gain, excess hair production, changes in libido or voice, muscle weakness and acne are all potential warning signs. Sometimes, secondary conditions, such as Cushing’s syndrome, can develop as a result of an adrenal tumor’s hormone production.
Diagnosing and treating adrenal carcinoma often requires a collaborative effort from several medical professionals. At Moffitt Cancer Center, we have a team of endocrinologists, pathologists, radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons and other medical professionals who specialize in treating adrenal cancer and other tumors involving the endocrine system.
Types of Adrenal Tumors
There are two main types of adrenal tumors, each one developing in a different part of the adrenal gland. Adrenal cortex tumors develop in the gland's outer layer, while adrenal medulla tumors develop within the gland’s inner core. There are several tumor subtypes, including:
- Adenomas
- Adrenocortical carcinomas
- Neuroblastomas
- Pheochromocytomas
Our Approach
Patients with adrenal carcinoma can come to Moffitt for a comprehensive scope of diagnostic, therapeutic and supportive care services, all of which are provided in a single location. When it comes to treating cancer, we believe that a one-dimensional approach simply isn’t good enough. Our patients benefit from tailored treatment plans that are individually created and may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
- Immunotherapy
Clinical trials are also available to our patients who would like to try new adrenal gland tumor therapies before those treatments are offered for use in other settings. This gives our patients opportunities to access novel options, such as biological therapies and stem cell-based treatments, while helping our researchers gain invaluable insight into the possible causes of adrenal system cancers and the best ways to treat them.
To learn more about our approach to adrenal carcinoma treatment or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced oncologists, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.