What is the adrenal gland?

The adrenal glands are triangular shaped glands that are located on top of the kidneys (also referred to as suprarenal glands). These glands produce steroid hormones and are responsible for controlling the stress response in our body as well as regulating our immune system.

What is adrenal cancer?

An adrenal tumor is a benign tumor of the adrenal gland. Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a malignant tumor of the adrenal gland and is an uncommon, uncompromising form of cancer which can occur in children or adults. Due to their usually deep positioning, diagnosis can be delayed until the cancer is quite large, by then possibly invading vessels and metastasizing by means of surrounding tissue, the lymphatic system, blood, or other organs. The cause of adrenal cancer is unknown. It is believed that heredity can play a role in the development of this disease. This form of cancer is most common in people in their 30's and 40's. The overall prognosis of adrenal cancer is poor.

Signs and symptoms of adrenal cancer

A large number of people with Adrenocortical Carcinoma have no symptoms. The tumors are usually small and often are found to occur in only one adrenal gland.

Symptoms could include:

• Raised blood pressure
• Thirst
• Fever
• Abdominal mass
• Abdominal pain
• Always feeling full
• Weight gain that is more noticeable in the trunk of the body
• Passing urine frequently
• Muscle cramps

Traditional treatment options for adrenal cancer

There are various treatment options for adrenal cancer. Traditional treatments can begin with the removal of the adrenal gland that contains the tumor. This operation can be performed through an incision into the abdomen or the back but is more commonly performed with the use of a surgical technique called laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery begins by inserting a tube with a tiny camera through a cut in the patient's side. Tools used through this tube allow the surgeon to remove the adrenal gland with the tumor. Treatment options could also include the use of toxic medicines. Your doctor may suggest:

• Surgery
• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Other drugs
  

Radiation therapy may also be considered an option for some adrenal cancer patients. Radiation therapy is used in an attempt to destroy cancerous cells and cause a reduction in tumor size. It is most often used for adrenal cancer that has metastasized. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are often performed simultaneously.

Hope4Cancer Institute treatment program for adrenal cancer

Adrenal Cancer is a very stressful diagnosis and your healthcare team understands this. At Hope4Cancer Institute we will make every effort to keep you up to date and comfortable with your diagnosis, options, and treatment. We work with you to ensure that every aspect of your adrenal cancer treatment program is successful. The recommendations your healthcare team make to you will be for the most effective alternative treatments. Individual treatment plans will vary. Hope4Cancer Institute optimizes your adrenal cancer treatment program by integrating our therapies which could include:

• Sono-Photo-Dynamic Therapy
• Hope4Cancer Therapy - Poly-MVA, Vitamin C, Laetrile (B-17)
• Nutrition Therapy
• Whole Body Detoxification
• Anti/fungal microbial Therapy
• Ozone Therapy
• Support Therapy
  

Our therapies can help to reduce cancer related side effects and improve your overall quality of life.

Our innovative approach to cancer treatment focuses not only on the disease, but on the patient's mind, body, and spirit.. If you are looking for an adrenal cancer treatment program that treats more than just your cancer, Hope4Cancer Institute is the facility you are looking for. Call us today at 888-544-5993. Our patient liaison is waiting to tell you more about our innovative approach to adrenal cancer treatment.

Death and mortality statistics for Adrenal Cancer

• 10% of patients with stage 4 adrenal cancer are alive 40 months after diagnosis in the US (Cushing's Support and Research Foundation)