Adrenal cortex carcinoma is a very rare malignant tumor that is often only discovered in advanced stages. In approximately 80% of cases, the tumor is hormonally active, leading to symptoms resembling Cushing’s syndrome.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis initially involves comprehensive hormone testing, similar to Cushing’s syndrome. Subsequently, imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, computed tomography, and, if metastasis is suspected, positron emission tomography (PET) are performed, as is the case with Cushing’s adenoma.

Treatment:

If there are no indications of metastasis and only one adrenal gland is affected, complete surgical removal of the tumor is recommended. Lifelong follow-up care is necessary. After surgery, if metastasis is suspected, there is often a need for medical treatment with mitotane. Treatment should be carried out in specialized centers. As a result of treatment, approximately 70% of patients develop adrenal insufficiency, which may require corticosteroid therapy.