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Adrenal gland cancer, medically referred to as adrenocortical carcinoma, is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that originates in the adrenal glands. These triangular-shaped glands, located on top of each kidney, play a crucial role in producing hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and stress response. Despite its infrequency, adrenal gland cancer demands attention due to its challenging diagnosis and limited treatment options.
One of the distinguishing features of adrenal gland cancer is its propensity to overproduce hormones. This can lead to a range of symptoms, such as high blood pressure, weight gain, diabetes, and changes in the distribution of body hair. However, these symptoms are often nonspecific, making the early detection of adrenal gland cancer a formidable task.
The diagnostic process typically involves a combination of imaging studies, blood tests, and biopsy. Imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRI play a crucial role in visualizing the tumor and assessing its size and potential spread. Blood tests are employed to identify hormone overproduction, providing valuable information for both diagnosis and treatment planning. A biopsy, often obtained through surgery, is necessary to confirm the cancerous nature of the tumor. Unfortunately, adrenal gland cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, when the tumor has already invaded surrounding tissues or metastasized to distant organs. This complicates treatment options and reduces the chances of a complete cure. Surgery is the primary treatment for localized cases, aiming to remove the tumor and surrounding tissues. However, due to the tumor's proximity to vital organs and blood vessels, complete surgical removal is not always feasible.
