Adrenal Cancer Information
Adrenal cancer is a rare malignancy that develops within the adrenal glands. While the exact number of adrenal gland cancer diagnoses is unknown, the American Cancer Society estimates that there are only approximately 200 cases of this malignancy diagnosed each year.
What is an adrenal gland?
Before discussing cancer of the adrenal glands, it may be helpful to explain where these glands are located and what their purpose is. The human body contains two adrenal glands (also referred to as suprarenal glands), with one situated above each kidney. These small, triangular glands produce adrenaline, cortisone and other steroid hormones, which are responsible for helping to keep metabolism, growth, fertility and other complex bodily processes in balance.
Adrenal cancer symptoms
Cancer in adrenal glands does not always produce symptoms. When symptoms do develop, they are often the result of a tumor that produces its own hormones (a functional tumor). Some of the symptoms caused by hormone-producing tumors include:
- Changes in sexual desire (libido)
- Frequent mood swings
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar
- Unexplained weight gain (particularly in the midsection)
- Muscle weakness and cramping
- Early onset of puberty
- Irregular menstrual cycles (in women)
- Clitoris enlargement (in women)
- Penis enlargement (in men)
If a patient’s tumor produces hormones normally associated with the opposite sex, the resulting symptoms may be especially noticeable. For example, women with androgen-producing tumors may experience voice deepening or excess body hair growth. Conversely, men with estrogen-producing tumors may experience breast tenderness or enlargement.
Excessive levels of cortisone may lead to the development of Cushing syndrome. And if an adrenal tumor begins pressing on a nearby organ, it can cause additional symptoms such as pain and swelling.
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