Adrenal Gland Cancer

Adrenal Gland Cancer

The adrenal glands are small glands located above each kidney and are an essential part of the endocrine system, producing vital hormones. Although cancers developing in these glands are rare, they represent a significant clinical condition due to their potential for rapid progression. Adrenal gland cancer may not show symptoms in the early stages, but over time can lead to serious problems due to hormonal imbalances and mass effect. Healme Clinic offers pioneering services with its multidisciplinary approach in the diagnosis and treatment of this rare but serious disease.

Anatomy and Functions of the Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands consist of two distinct anatomical regions:

• Adrenal cortex (outer layer): Produces steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens.
• Adrenal medulla (inner layer): Secretes adrenaline and noradrenaline, which regulate the "fight or flight" response.

These hormones play vital roles in metabolism, stress response, blood pressure regulation, water-salt balance, and maintaining sexual characteristics.

What is Adrenal Gland Cancer?
Adrenal gland cancer refers to malignant tumors originating in the adrenal glands. The cancer may arise from either the cortex or medulla. The most common type is adrenocortical carcinoma, an aggressive tumor where early diagnosis is crucial.

Types of Adrenal Gland Cancer

• Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC): A rare but serious cancer originating in the cortex, which may secrete hormones.
• Pheochromocytoma: Arises from the medulla. Usually benign but can be malignant in some cases. Produces excess adrenaline-like hormones.
• Metastatic adrenal tumors: Result from the spread of other cancers to the adrenal glands.

Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on tumor location and the hormones secreted:

Hormonal Excess-Related Symptoms

• Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol): Round face, abdominal fat accumulation, muscle weakness
• Conn’s syndrome (excess aldosterone): High blood pressure, low potassium
• Virilization (excess androgens): Male-pattern hair growth and voice deepening in women
• Pheochromocytoma symptoms: Palpitations, sweating, sudden high blood pressure spikes

Mass-Related Symptoms

• Palpable mass in the abdomen or flank
• Back or abdominal pain
• Weight loss, decreased appetite

Diagnostic Methods
Healme Clinic aims for accurate and early diagnosis using advanced diagnostic techniques:

Biochemical Evaluation

• Cortisol, ACTH, aldosterone, renin, metanephrines, androgen, and estrogen levels
• 24-hour urinary free cortisol
• Dexamethasone suppression test

Imaging Studies

• CT (Computed Tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Show tumor size, location, and spread.
• PET-CT: Assesses tumor activity and distant metastases.

Biopsy
In some cases, biopsy is required for differential diagnosis, but it may be risky in suspected pheochromocytoma cases.

Treatment Options
Healme Clinic provides personalized, multidisciplinary treatment plans:

Surgical Treatment

• Surgery is the primary treatment. The entire adrenal gland or only the tumor may be removed.
• Minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic methods are preferred.

Medical Treatments

• Mitotane: A specific chemotherapy agent used in adrenocortical carcinoma.
• Traditional chemotherapy: Agents like etoposide and cisplatin may be used.
• Radiotherapy: Used for local control post-surgery or for symptomatic metastases.

Monitoring and Follow-Up
Due to a high recurrence risk, regular follow-up is essential.

• Hormone levels and imaging are monitored every 3-6 months.
• Healme Clinic uses systematic protocols for long-term follow-up.

Prognostic Factors

• Tumor size
• Stage and presence of metastasis
• Hormone secretion status
• Completeness of surgical removal

Advantages Offered by Healme Clinic

• Multidisciplinary team including endocrinology, oncology, surgery, and radiology experts
• Modern surgical techniques and robotic systems
• Targeted chemotherapy protocols
• Patient-centered care and individualized treatment planning
• Psychosocial support programs post-treatment

Adrenal gland cancer is a rare but complex disease. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, successful outcomes are achievable. Healme Clinic is a healthcare institution where scientific, technological, and compassionate approaches come together, prioritizing patient satisfaction. Anyone experiencing symptoms should consult a specialist without delay—this can be life-saving.