Why Choose Us for Adrenocortical Carcinoma Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you receive expert, compassionate care for adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). Your multidisciplinary care team includes endocrine surgeons, urologic oncologists, medical oncologists, endocrinologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care experts. We tailor your treatment to balance aggressive cancer control with preservation of hormonal function and quality of life.
“My doctor's skill as a surgeon is extraordinary. He has also put together an impressive team that gave me confidence that my case was in excellent hands."
—Adrenocortical Carcinoma Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, hormone secretion status, and overall health:
- Surgery, the primary curative approach
- Radiation therapy, for local control or palliation
- Chemotherapy, often for advanced or metastatic disease
We combine these treatment options as needed, supported by a team of medical professionals.
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available. Here are just a few of our areas of expertise:
- Experience managing rare adrenal cancers
- Reviews by a tumor board, or team of medical professionals, to ensure collaboration across specialities
- Access to clinical trials and research protocols tailored for ACC
- Integration of endocrine evaluation and hormonal management
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find an Adrenocortical Carcinoma Doctor
Adrenocortical Carcinoma Research
Our expert research teams are working to improve treatment for adrenocortical carcinoma through our specialty Genitourinary Cancers Disease Center. Through clinical trials, we explore new therapies that may offer better outcomes. Our clinical trials investigate new treatments, combination therapies, and precision medicine approaches aimed at improving outcomes and quality of life.
By participating, you play an active role in advancing care and helping others facing the same diagnosis.
Interested in learning more? Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with an Adrenocortical Carcinoma Specialist
To make an appointment with an adrenocortical carcinoma specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Adrenocortical Carcinoma Basics
Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare cancer arising from the adrenal cortex, the outer part of the adrenal glands located above each kidney. These glands produce essential hormones.
These are warning signs of adrenocortical carcinoma:
- Palpable lump or mass in the abdomen
- Abdominal or back pain
- Feeling of fullness in the abdomen
As ACC may produce excess hormones, patients can also experience symptoms of hormonal imbalance. This could include Cushing syndrome, brought on by an overabundance of cortisol, or virilization, which occurs when a female produces an excess of male hormones.
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These inherited genetic syndromes are risk factors for adrenocortical carcinoma:
- Li-Fraumeni syndrome, an inherited disorder that leads to a higher cancer risk
- Beck with-Wiedemann syndrome, a growth disorder
- Carney complex, a genetic disorder
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Doctors use these tests to diagnose adrenocortical carcinoma
- Physical exam and medical history
- Laboratory and hormonal testing of blood and/or urine
- CT, MRI, or PET imaging to visualize the tumor and evaluate spread
- Biopsy, or tissue sampling, when safe and indicated
When a person is diagnosed with cancer, concerns about treatments and side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are common. Huntsman Cancer Institute offers many ways to support patients, caregivers, and loved ones.
Staging is based on tumor size, local extension, lymph node involvement, and metastasis:
- Stage 1: Tumor is 5 cm or less, confined to the adrenal gland.
- Stage 2: Tumor is greater than 5 cm, still confined to the adrenal gland.
- Stage 3: Tumor is any size with local invasion into surrounding fat, nearby tissues, or regional lymph nodes.
- Stage 4: Tumor has metastasized to distant organs or adjacent structures.
When metastatic spread occurs, the cancer remains classified as ACC in the new site (e.g., ACC in bone is metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma).
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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