Adrenal Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Adrenal cancer is a rare condition that develops in the adrenal glands, two small organs located just above each kidney. An essential part of the endocrine system, the adrenal glands produce and release hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism, blood pressure, blood sugar, immune function and stress response.

In most cases, adrenal cancer originates in the outer layer of the gland (adrenal cortex), causing it to produce excessive hormones (a functional tumor). While the exact cause is not fully understood, certain inherited genetic mutations and cancer syndromes can increase the risk. These include Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, Carney complex, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Lynch syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2), neurofibromatosis type 1 and von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome.

The diagnostic process for adrenal cancer typically begins with imaging scans, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, along with blood work and urinalysis to check for abnormal hormone levels. Usually, the next step is a biopsy or surgical removal of the tumor to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment often involves surgery, possibly combined with chemotherapy, radiation therapy or targeted therapy, depending on the stage of the tumor.

Adrenal cancer can occur at any age, but it is most often diagnosed in adults between the ages of 40 and 50. Because it is so uncommon—affecting only about 1 in every 1 million people each year—it can sometimes be difficult to detect in its early stages. Therefore, it is important to learn about the warning signs and promptly discuss any unusual changes with a specialist.

What are the early warning signs of adrenal cancer?

Adrenal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages, which can make early detection challenging. However, some individuals may experience unusual changes related to excessive hormone production, such as unexplained weight gain, increased facial or body hair, high blood pressure or mood swings. In some cases, a lump in the abdomen may be discovered during a routine physical examination or imaging test performed for an unrelated reason. Recognizing these early warning signs and seeking a prompt medical evaluation can lead to a timely diagnosis and treatment.

What are the symptoms of adrenal cancer?

The symptoms of adrenal cancer can vary depending on whether the tumor produces hormones. A functional tumor can trigger issues such as new-onset diabetes, deepening of the voice, irregular menstrual cycles in women and other physical changes that can be seen or felt.

What does adrenal cancer look like?

Visible signs of adrenal cancer can include unexplained bruising and swelling in the lower legs. Some people also notice rapid changes in their appearance, such as sudden weight gain in their face and trunk with simultaneous thinning in their arms and legs. In men, a functional adrenal tumor may also cause noticeable breast enlargement.

Usually, adrenal cancer cannot be identified by sight alone. On an imaging test, such as a CT or MRI scan, the tumor may look like an irregularly shaped mass on or near the gland. Compared to noncancerous growths (adenomas), cancerous tumors are often larger and can potentially spread into surrounding tissues. If adrenal cancer is suspected, the physician will typically order follow-up testing to confirm the diagnosis.

What does adrenal cancer feel like?

An adrenal tumor may not cause pain or discomfort until it becomes large enough to press on nearby tissues and organs, such as the kidneys and stomach. Some patients may experience pressure, a sensation of fullness or a dull ache in their abdomen or back. If the tumor affects hormone levels, other possible symptoms that can be felt include fatigue, muscle weakness and mood changes. Because these warning signs can be vague and similar to those of other conditions, they are not a reliable way to detect adrenal cancer without medical testing.

What are the symptoms of advanced adrenal cancer?

If an adrenal tumor progresses to a late stage, the symptoms may become more severe and widespread. For instance, the patient may experience persistent abdominal or back pain, significant unintentional weight loss or noticeable swelling in their abdomen due to tumor growth. In addition, hormone imbalances may become more pronounced, leading to extreme fatigue, severe high blood pressure or uncontrolled blood sugar. Advanced cancer can also cause bone pain, difficulty breathing and other symptoms related to metastasis to distant organs. At this stage, the symptoms of adrenal cancer can significantly affect the patient’s quality of life and require prompt medical care.

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

If you would like to discuss your adrenal cancer symptoms with a specialist in the Endocrine Oncology Program at Moffitt, you can request an appointment by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. If you have already received a diagnosis, our adrenal cancer experts can review your images, lab work and biopsy results and offer a second opinion. We do not require referrals.