Adrenal cancer

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What is adrenal cancer?

Adrenal cancer, also known as adrenocortical carcinoma, occurs when cancerous cells grow in one or both adrenal glands. These two tiny, triangular glands, located just above each kidney, produce hormones that regulate many important body functions like blood pressure, metabolism, and stress responses. Adrenal cancer is most effectively treated when it's caught early, before it spreads to other parts of the body.

At Penn Medicine, endocrinologists who specialize in hormone-related diseases work closely with oncologists to diagnose and treat adrenal gland cancer. These specialists consider all aspects of your diagnosis and health history to develop an individualized treatment plan that's right for you.

Signs and symptoms of adrenal cancer

A cancerous mass on the adrenal glands can increase hormone levels produced by the glands. These hormones include cortisol, androgen, and aldosterone. Higher levels of each hormone can cause specific symptoms.

Why adrenal cancer develops

Adrenal gland tumors are often benign, and adrenal cancer is rare. While anyone can develop cancerous adrenal tumors, they are most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of five or in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. The exact cause of adrenal cancer is unknown, but it may be associated with some inherited diseases. Research is ongoing to determine the specific causes of adrenal cancer.

Diagnosing and testing for adrenal cancer

Your doctor will take a medical history, discuss your symptoms, and conduct a physical examination. They’ll order blood tests to check hormone levels related to cortisol, aldosterone, testosterone, estrogen, or other hormones. You’ll also have an imaging test of the abdominal area to confirm the diagnosis.

CT scan
A CT scan helps diagnose traumatic injuries, cancer, vascular diseases, and many other conditions.
Ultrasound
Leading-edge ultrasound technology helps us diagnose a range of health conditions.
MRI
An MRI provides high-resolution images of the brain, spine, and many other structures in the body.
PET scan
A PET scan helps us diagnose diseases and plan treatment as early as possible.
Biopsy
A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue for lab examination.

Adrenal cancer treatment options

Treatment for adrenal cancer is highly individualized. Your provider will recommend a plan based on how far the cancer has progressed and your overall health. Surgery is often recommended to remove one or both adrenal glands. Medications can help lower hormone levels and manage symptoms.

If both adrenal glands are removed during surgery, you’ll need lifelong medication to replace the hormones they normally produce. 

Chemotherapy
This treatment uses strong medicines to target and eliminate cancer cells and to prevent their spread.
Radiation therapy
External radiation and internal radiation therapies are used to treat cancer and benign tumors.
Adrenalectomy
This surgery removes one or both adrenal glands, usually because of a noncancerous tumor.

Advanced, total care for adrenal cancer

When you receive cancer care at Penn Medicine through the Abramson Cancer Center (ACC), you’ll have access to the most advanced tools and treatments for adrenal cancer. Working with our interdisciplinary team of experts in endocrinology and oncology, you’ll get an accurate diagnosis along with a tailored care plan to meet your specific health needs.

As part of a research hospital, our doctors are tapped into the latest clinical trials and evolving medical studies to bring you the most up-to-date treatments that may not be widely available at other hospitals. Our innovative and compassionate approach is designed to bring you the highest level of care and the most effective treatment outcomes.

National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center badge on top of shot of hospital

Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute

Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.

Related specialties

Cancer genetics and risk evaluation
Genetic testing can help you better understand your risk of developing inherited cancers.
Endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism
We specialize in diagnosing and treating endocrine, diabetes, and metabolic diseases and disorders.

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Make an appointmentCall 800-789-7366