The majority of patients have no other signs or symptoms. However, a woman may experience these symptoms if there is a persistent increase in breast size or difficulty conceiving. Other signs of adrenocortical carcinoma include irregular menstrual cycles, vaginal bleeding, and deepening of voice.
While many adrenocortical tumors are benign and nonfunctioning, some are cancerous. Adenomas are masses of adrenal epithelial cells that are overgrown, but do not spread. These benign lesions are usually small and unnoticeable. A doctor will recommend further testing to ensure that you have a cancerous lesion. Typically, a biopsy is necessary to diagnose adrenocortical carcinoma.
Some people who have a family history of adrenocortical cancer are more likely to develop it. A family history of adrenocortic cancer can also increase your risk of developing the disease. Although there are no specific symptoms of adrenocortical carcinoma, you should talk to your doctor if you suspect you have these risks. Symptoms of adrenocortical carcinoma may include abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness. If your tumor is not functioning, you may not experience any of these symptoms. Another symptom of an adrenocortical tumor is the growth of fine hair or a lump of fat in the abdomen.
Although the most common type of adrenocortical tumor is benign, adenomas are often not cancerous. Most of them are less than 4 cm in diameter. Adenomas are masses of overgrowing adrenal epithelial cells. They do not spread. If you suspect you have adrenocortical carcinoma, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
If you suspect you have adrenocortical cancer, you should have it examined by a doctor immediately. The tumor may be located on the right side of your adrenal glands. Your physician will have to remove the tumor to ensure that it is not cancerous. If your physician finds an adrenocortical tumor, you should seek immediate medical treatment. Taking medication will not cure you. It can lead to an aggressive treatment that may require surgery.
Your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for general health signs and abnormalities. A history of health habits and previous treatments will be helpful. You will also be tested for 17-ketosteroids and cortisol levels in urine. If you have higher levels than normal, your condition may indicate that you have adrenocortical cancer. A diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma is based on your doctor’s observations and a thorough evaluation.
If your doctor suspects you have adrenocortical cancer, the next step is a biopsy. The biopsy will allow your doctor to determine if the cancer has spread. The biopsy will also confirm whether it is benign or malignant. There are some signs of adrenocortical tumors that do not show symptoms. These symptoms include the occurrence of multiple tumours in your adrenocortical glands.
A doctor can perform a blood hormone study to rule out other causes of adrenocortical cancer. A doctor can measure hormones in the blood and determine if your doctor suspects you have this disease. A blood test will help determine if you are at risk for adrenocortical cancer and which treatments are best suited for your symptoms. The tumor will also affect the functioning of the adrenal gland and the thyroid.
