Adrenal carcinoma is a rare but aggressive cancer of the adrenal glands, responsible for producing essential hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline. This malignant tumor can cause severe hormonal imbalances and may spread to nearby organs if not detected early. Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah, a specialist in adrenal disorders, provides advanced diagnostic evaluation and cutting-edge treatment to manage adrenal carcinoma effectively.

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause of adrenal carcinoma is unknown, but certain factors may increase the risk, including:

• Genetic Conditions such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN1).
• Hormonal Imbalances leading to excess production of cortisol, aldosterone, or androgens.
• Family History of adrenal tumors or endocrine cancers.

Symptoms of Adrenal Carcinoma

Symptoms depend on whether the tumor is functional (hormone-producing) or non-functional and its size. Common signs include:

Hormone-Related Symptoms:

• Excess Cortisol (Cushing’s Syndrome): Rapid weight gain, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, diabetes, and facial roundness (moon face).
• Excess Aldosterone (Conn’s Syndrome): Severe hypertension, low potassium levels, frequent muscle cramps, and excessive thirst.
• Excess Androgens (Testosterone-like Effects in Women): Deepened voice, excessive hair growth, and menstrual irregularities.
• Excess Estrogens (Feminization in Men): Breast enlargement, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction.

General Symptoms:

• Persistent abdominal pain or fullness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Palpable lump in the abdomen
• Fatigue and weakness

Diagnostic Approach

At Dr. Pruthvi Raj’s clinic, adrenal carcinoma is diagnosed through:

Hormonal Tests:

• Cortisol, Aldosterone, Testosterone, and Estrogen Levels – To detect hormonal overproduction.
• Dexamethasone Suppression Test – For excess cortisol.
• 24-Hour Urinary Metanephrines – To rule out pheochromocytoma.

Imaging Studies:

• CT or MRI of the Adrenal Glands – To assess tumor size and spread.
• PET Scan – To detect metastasis (spread to other organs).
• Adrenal Biopsy – In selected cases to confirm malignancy.

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for adrenal carcinoma is surgical removal (adrenalectomy), often combined with additional therapies based on tumor size and spread.

1. Surgery (Adrenalectomy):

• Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy – For small tumors.
• Open Surgery – For larger or invasive tumors.

2. Medications & Hormone Therapy:

• Mitotane (Adrenal-Specific Chemotherapy) – Suppresses adrenal hormone production and helps control tumor growth.
• Steroid Replacement Therapy – Required if both adrenal glands are affected.

3. Radiation & Chemotherapy:

• Used for advanced-stage adrenal carcinoma or if cancer has spread beyond the adrenal glands.

4. Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy:

• Advanced treatments for metastatic adrenal carcinoma, improving survival rates in some patients.

Why Choose Dr. Pruthvi Raj for Adrenal Carcinoma Treatment?

With expertise in adrenal tumors, laparoscopic adrenalectomy, and advanced oncological management, Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah provides personalized, state-of-the-art care for adrenal carcinoma patients. His comprehensive approach ensures early diagnosis, precise treatment, and long-term follow-up for the best possible outcomes.