Adrenal cortex cancer, also known as adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC), is a rare and aggressive malignant tumor originating from the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are situated on top of the kidneys and are responsible for producing hormones essential for various bodily functions. Specifically, the adrenal cortex is involved in the production of vital hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens.
Adrenal cortex cancer usually affects adults and can occur at any age, with a peak incidence in the fifth decade of life. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the adrenal cortex, leading to the formation of tumors. These tumors often grow large in size and can invade surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, typically to the liver, lungs, or peritoneum.
Symptoms of adrenal cortex cancer may include abdominal pain or mass, weight loss, fatigue, hormonal imbalances (such as excess production of cortisol or androgens), high blood pressure, or hyperglycemia. However, many cases are diagnosed incidentally during diagnostic tests or imaging scans for unrelated conditions.
The treatment of adrenal cortex cancer typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, depending on the stage and extent of the disease. Due to its aggressive nature, the prognosis for adrenal cortex cancer is usually poor, with a high likelihood of recurrence even after initial treatment.
