Adrenal Cancer
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Adrenal Cancer

Adrenal Cancer

Adrenal Cancer Treatment at Northwest Urology

Adrenal Cancer is a rare disease that occurs when abnormal cells form and grow uncontrollably in the adrenal glands—small endocrine glands located above each kidney. These glands produce hormones that regulate essential body functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and kidney function. While most adrenal tumors are benign (non-cancerous), some are malignant and require immediate attention. At Northwest Urology, we offer comprehensive care for adrenal cancer, using advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to provide the best outcomes for our patients.

Adrenal cancer treatment depends on the tumor’s size, whether it produces excess hormones, and its stage at diagnosis.

The primary treatment options for Adrenal Cancer include:

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Symptoms of adrenal cancer vary depending on whether the tumor produces hormones and its size. Common symptoms include:

  • Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, cheeks, and above the collarbone
  • Muscle weakness
  • High blood pressure
  • High blood sugar (diabetes)
  • Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Deepening of the voice
  • Increased hair growth, especially on the face (in women)
  • Abdominal or lower back pain
  • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

The exact causes of adrenal cancer are not fully understood. However, research indicates that genetic mutations in tumor suppressor genes play a significant role in its development.

Several factors increase the risk of developing adrenal cancer, including:

  • Genetic mutations in tumor suppressor genes
  • Inherited syndromes such as:
    • Carney complex
    • Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome
    • Li-Fraumeni syndrome
    • Lynch syndrome
    • Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia, Type 1 (MEN 1)

Surgery (Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy)

Surgical removal of the adrenal gland, known as adrenalectomy, is the most common treatment for adrenal tumors. This treatment is typically used for benign adrenal tumors larger than 5 cm or small tumors that may be malignant or are producing high levels of hormones. Currently, open surgery is only performed when the adrenal tumors are larger than 10 cm or when cancer is suspected and appears to have spread to other neighboring organs.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may be used to target and destroy cancer cells that remain after surgery or for patients with inoperable tumors.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often recommended for advanced cases where cancer has spread to other areas of the body. It may be combined with other medications to manage symptoms and slow tumor growth.

Hormonal Therapy and Other Medications

For tumors that produce excess hormones, medications may be prescribed to regulate hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.

Survival rates vary depending on the cancer’s stage at diagnosis:

  • Localized (confined to the adrenal gland): 5-year survival rate of 73%
  • Regionalized (spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes): 5-year survival rate of 53%
  • Distant (spread to other parts of the body): 5-year survival rate of 38%
  • All stages combined: 5-year survival rate of 50%

For more detailed information on adrenal cancer statistics, please refer to the Adrenal Cancer Statistics provided by the American Cancer Society.

Our Commitment to Adrenal Cancer Care

At Northwest Urology, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care for adrenal cancer patients. From advanced diagnostic techniques to personalized treatment options like Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy Surgery, Radiation Therapy, Chemotherapy, Hormonal Therapy and Other Medications, our expert team supports patients through every step of their journey. Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, exploring treatment options, or managing post-treatment care, Northwest Urology is here to help.

This content is provided for informational purposes only. For a professional diagnosis or medical advice, please consult a healthcare provider.

Meet Our Providers

Sasha Druskin, MD
NW Portland / Slabtown
Adult Urology, Aquablation®, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, SpaceOAR™, UroLift® System, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy
John Gunselman, DO
NW Portland / Slabtown
Adult Urology, Aquablation®, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, SpaceOAR™, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy
Daniel Janoff, MD
SW Portland / St. Vincent Hospital
Adult Urology, Barrigel™, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, SpaceOAR™, UroLift® System, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy, Vasectomy Reversal/Vasovasostomy
Stanley A. Myers, MD
SW Portland / St. Vincent Hospital
Adult Urology, General Urology, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, UroLift® System, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy, Vasectomy Reversal/Vasovasostomy
Brian S. Shaffer, MD
SW Portland / St. Vincent Hospital
Adult Urology, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, SpaceOAR™, UroLift® System, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy, Vasectomy Reversal/Vasovasostomy
Sara Spettel, MD
SW Portland / St. Vincent Hospital
Adult Urology, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Rezūm™, Sedation Services, SpaceOAR™, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy
James Tycast, MD, FACS
Tualatin
Adult Urology, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, UroLift® System, Urologic Oncology
Eli Thompson, MD
NW Portland / Slabtown
Adult Urology, Aquablation®, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, SpaceOAR™, UroLift® System, Urologic Oncology, Vasectomy, Vasectomy Reversal/Vasovasostomy
William Simpson, PA-C
NW Portland / Slabtown
Adult Urology, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Sedation Services, Urologic Oncology
Kevin Brandt, PA-C
SW Portland / St. Vincent Hospital
Adult Urology, General Urology, Male Fertility & Sexual Dysfunction, Urologic Oncology
Dana Dauer, PA-C
SW Portland / St. Vincent Hospital
Adult Urology, General Urology, Urologic Oncology