Have you ever felt like you're on a constant adrenaline rush, even when you're relaxing? It might be more than just stress. In rare cases, it could be a sign of an adrenal tumour. Adrenal tumours or adrenal cancer is a rare form of cancer. Adrenal cancer can develop at any age, however, it tends to impact children under 5 and adults in their 40s and 50s more frequently.

Early detection of adrenal cancer offers a chance for cure; however, if the cancer has spread beyond the adrenal glands, the likelihood of cure diminishes. In such cases, treatment aims to postpone progression or recurrence. In this blog, we’ll talk about adrenal gland tumours, their causes, symptoms to look out for, and much more!

Adrenal Gland Tumour Symptoms

Do you know that the 5-year relative survival rate for adrenal gland tumours is 74%? Adrenal gland tumours may or may not show symptoms. It depends on the type of hormone produced by the tumour. If you have an adrenal gland tumour, you may experience:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Accumulation of fat in the upper back between the shoulders or in the neck
• Rounded, full face, often referred to as "moon" face
• Thin skin prone to easy bruising and slow healing
• Purple-red stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, or breasts
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness or spasms
• Fluctuations in weight
• Diabetes
• Sleep disorders such as insomnia
• Low levels of potassium
• Headaches
• Irregular or rapid heartbeats
• Feelings of anxiety, panic, or fear
• Pallor (paleness)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing
• Tremors
• Sweating
• Rarely, temporary or intermittent paralysis
• For Women: Excessive facial and body hair, deep voice, or menstrual irregularities
• For Men: Breast tenderness or enlargement, reduced sex drive, and/or erectile dysfunction

Early Signs of Adrenal Cancer 

Early signs of adrenal cancer can be subtle and may mimic symptoms of other medical conditions. While adrenal cancer often presents with vague symptoms, some signs may indicate its presence. Here are key points highlighting the early signs of adrenal cancer:

1. Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss, particularly without changes in diet or exercise, can be a potential indicator of adrenal cancer.
2. Abdominal Pain or Swelling: Persistent or recurrent abdominal pain, discomfort, or swelling, especially in the area near the adrenal glands, might signal the presence of a tumour.
3. Feeling of Fullness in the Abdomen: A sensation of fullness or bloating in the abdominal area, even after consuming small amounts of food, can be a symptom of adrenal cancer as the tumour grows and affects nearby organs.
4. Changes in Hormone Levels: Adrenal tumours can disrupt hormone production, leading to symptoms such as high blood pressure (hypertension), excessive hair growth (hirsutism), irregular menstruation in women, and changes in libido.
5. Fatigue and Weakness: Generalised fatigue, weakness, or feelings of exhaustion that persist despite adequate rest may be associated with adrenal cancer as the body copes with the effects of the tumour and hormone imbalances.

Causes of Adrenal Gland Cancer

The precise causes of most adrenal cortical tumours remain unclear. However, in recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding how specific changes in an individual's DNA can lead to the development of cancerous cells in the adrenal gland. DNA, the chemical within our cells, comprises our genes, which regulate nearly all cellular activities. 

Our resemblance to our parents stems from inheriting their DNA. Yet, DNA influences more than just our physical traits; it also influences our susceptibility to certain diseases, including some forms of cancer.

Genes that promote cell growth and division are known as oncogenes, while those that inhibit cancer cell division or induce cell death at appropriate times are termed tumour suppressor genes. DNA mutations, which activate oncogenes or deactivate tumour suppressor genes, can instigate cancer development. Some individuals inherit DNA mutations from a parent, heightening their cancer risk. 

However, the majority of DNA mutations associated with cancer arise during life rather than being inherited. Some mutations may result from exposure to factors like radiation or carcinogenic substances. Nevertheless, many mutations occur spontaneously, seemingly without external triggers.

Adrenal Gland Tumours Treatment

Your doctor will devise a treatment plan tailored to your condition and overall well-being. Below are the methods for adrenal gland tumour treatment:

1. Surgery: This is the sole treatment with the potential for a cure. Your doctor may remove one or both of your adrenal glands. If the cancer has spread, nearby lymph nodes may also need removal—they're small glands aiding your immune system's defence against germs.
2. Radiation: This therapy can eliminate cancer cells or impede tumour growth. It may follow surgery. Your doctor might administer radiation externally using a machine, place radioactive seeds near the tumour, or insert a sealed radioactive capsule or wire into it.
3. Medications: Mitotane (Lysodren) is commonly prescribed to block adrenal gland hormone production and eradicate cancer cells. Your doctor may recommend it post-surgery if there's a risk of tumour recurrence. Biologic drugs can bolster your immune system against cancer, while hormone drugs help regulate hormone levels affected by the tumour.
4. Chemotherapy: Drugs delivered throughout your body target cancer cells but may harm healthy ones. Targeted therapy drugs specifically seek and destroy cancer cells, sparing healthy tissue.
5. Tumour ablation: This method employs heat or cold to eliminate cancer cells, especially if the tumour has spread, recurred, or if surgery isn't feasible. It can alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Final Words

Understanding adrenal cancer's complexities is crucial for patients and caregivers. While causes may vary, advancements in genetic research shed light on its origins. Awareness of symptoms and available treatments is vital. 

Individuals can navigate their journey with resilience through support networks and medical guidance. Continued research holds promise for improved detection and treatment. With collective efforts, we can enhance outcomes and offer hope to those affected by adrenal cancer.