Management of adrenocortical carcinoma

Angiogenesis Imaging of Adrenocortical Carcinoma with Ga-68-NODAGA-RGD Positron Emission Tomography: Opening New Horizons in Multimodality Imaging from Theranostic Perspective

A 53-year-old female, with a known case of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), underwent F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for initial staging, which revealed FDG avid large left suprarenal mass contiguous with hypermetabolic tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava (IVC) through the left renal vein. Thereafter, she underwent angiogenesis imaging using Ga-68-NODAGA-RGD PET/CT, which showed similar avid tracer uptake in both primary and IVC thrombus. Demonstration of RGD avidity in ACC in this case opens a new horizon for targeted radionuclide therapy (e.g., Lu-177 RGD) in selected patients, who may have limited therapeutic options.

Characterization of hyperlipidemia secondary to mitotane in adrenocortical carcinoma

Background

This study examined the magnitude of changes and the time required to observe maximal changes in LDL-c, HDL-c, triglycerides (Tg) and non-HDL-c after the introduction of mitotane.

Methods

Retrospective study of 45 patients with adrenocortical carcinoma who were treated at the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal. Clinical and biochemical data were collected, including lipid profiles before and during the first year of treatment with mitotane.

Results

Among the 45 studied patients, 26 (58%) had a complete lipid profile before the introduction of mitotane and at least 1 lipid profile during the first year of treatment, and 19 patients (42%) had a lipid profile following initiation of the treatment. Among the 26 patients who had lipid profiles before and after the introduction of mitotane, the increase of LDL-c was 2.19 mmol/L (76%) (P< 0.0001), HDL-c was 0.54 mmol/L (35%) (P= 0.0002), Tg was 1.80 mmol/L (129%) (P< 0.0001) and non-HDL-c was 2.73 mmol/L (79%) (P< 0.0001). Between the first and the sixth month of mitotane treatment, peak values (n  = 45) of LDL-c and non-HDL-c were reached in 42 patients (93%) and 37 patients (82%), respectively, whereas peak values of HDL-c were reached after 6 months of mitotane treatment in 29 patients (66%). The peak value of Tg was almost equal throughout the first year. The mean peak values of HDL-c, Tg and non-HDL-c showed significant associations with their respective mitotane concentrations (β = 0.352, P= 0.03; β = 0.406, P= 0.02 and β = 0.339, P= 0.05).

Conclusion

The introduction of mitotane produces a clinically significant elevation of lipid parameters (LDL-c, HDL-c, Tg and non-HDL-c) during the first year of treatment.

Tumor Doubling Time Using CT Volumetric Segmentation in Metastatic Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy with an overall unfavorable prognosis. Clinicians treating patients with ACC have noted accelerated growth in metastatic liver lesions that requires rapid intervention compared to other metastatic locations. This study measured and compared the growth rates of metastatic ACC lesions in the lungs, liver, and lymph nodes using volumetric segmentation. A total of 12 patients with metastatic ACC (six male; six female) were selected based on their medical history. Computer tomography (CT) exams were retrospectively reviewed and a sampling of ≤5 metastatic lesions per organ were selected for evaluation. Lesions in the liver, lung, and lymph nodes were measured and evaluated by volumetric segmentation. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the volumetric growth rates of the lesions in each organ system. In this cohort, 5/12 had liver lesions, 7/12 had lung lesions, and 5/12 had lymph node lesions. A total of 92 lesions were evaluated and segmented for lesion volumetry. The volume doubling time per organ system was 27 days in the liver, 90 days in the lungs, and 95 days in the lymph nodes. In this series of 12 patients with metastatic ACC, liver lesions showed a faster growth rate than lung or lymph node lesions.

Carcinoma of unknown primary origin with isolated adrenal metastasis: a report of two cases

The adrenal glands are one of the most common sites of malignant tumor metastasis. However, metastatic adrenal carcinoma of unknown primary origin with localized adrenal gland involvement is an extremely rare condition. Herein, we reported two cases of carcinoma of unknown primary origin with isolated adrenal metastasis. In the first case, back pain was the trigger; while in the second case, the triggers were low fever and weight loss. Metabolic abnormalities such as hypertension and obesity were not detected in either case. Neither patient had relevant previous medical histories, including malignancy. However, both had a long-term history of smoking. Systemic imaging studies revealed only adrenal tumors and surrounding lesions. Primary adrenocortical carcinoma was initially suspected, and chemotherapy including mitotane was considered. However, due to difficulty in complete resection of the tumor, core needle tumor biopsies were performed. Histopathological examination of biopsy specimens led to the diagnosis of carcinoma of unknown primary origin with isolated adrenal metastasis. In both cases, additional laboratory testing showed high levels of serum squamous cell carcinoma-related antigen and serum cytokeratin fragment. Malignant lesions confined to the adrenal glands are rare. As in our cases, it could be occasionally difficult to differentiate non-functioning primary adrenocortical carcinoma from metastatic adrenal carcinoma of unknown primary origin localized to the adrenal gland. If the lesion is unresectable and there are elevated levels of several tumor markers with no apparent hormonal excess, core needle tumor biopsy should be considered to differentiate the primary tumor from the metastatic tumor.

A Critical Appraisal of Contemporary and Novel Biomarkers in Pheochromocytomas and Adrenocortical Tumors

Simple Summary

Pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas (PPGLs) and adrenocortical tumors are neoplasms that originate from different regions of the adrenal gland and display significant heterogeneity with respect to their biological and clinical behavior. They may be sporadic or develop in the context of hereditary syndromes. Adrenocortical tumors are mostly benign but less than 2% are carcinomas associated with a poor outcome when diagnosed in advanced disease. The majority of PPGLS are benign, but a subset may develop metastatic disease. In particular, for PPGLs, it is mandatory to identify biomarkers of high sensitivity and specificity that lead to accurate diagnosis and predict patients with a malignant potential that would benefit from aggressive surveillance and administration of early treatment. Current biomarkers include mostly histopathological and genetic parameters but none of them can be considered independent predictive factors. Recent genomic studies have implemented new molecular biomarkers of high accuracy for the diagnosis and management of PPGLs and adrenocortical tumors. In this review, we summarize the current and novel biomarkers that may be considered valuable tools for diagnosis and prediction of malignancy in patients with PPGLs and adrenocortical tumors.

Abstract

Pheochromocytomas/Paragangliomas (PPGLs) and adrenocortical tumors are rare neoplasms with significant heterogeneity in their biologic and clinical behavior. Current diagnostic and predictive biomarkers include hormone secretion, as well as histopathological and genetic features. PPGL diagnosis is based on biochemical measurement of catecholamines/metanephrines, while histopathological scoring systems have been proposed to predict the risk of malignancy. Adrenocortical tumors are mostly benign, but some can be malignant. Currently, the stage of disease at diagnosis and tumor grade, appear to be the most powerful prognostic factors. However, recent genomic and proteomic studies have identified new genetic and circulating biomarkers, including genes, immunohistochemical markers and micro-RNAs that display high specificity and sensitivity as diagnostic or prognostic tools. In addition, new molecular classifications have been proposed that divide adrenal tumors in distinct subgroups with different clinical outcomes.

Clinical and Histopathological Variables and Prognostic Factors of Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and highly aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis. The literature on prognosis from low-income or low-middle-income countries is limited and scarce. This study aimed to determine the clinical and histopathological characteristics, recurrence-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and the factors affecting ACC's prognosis.

This was a retrospective study of patients that presented with ACC to the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer & Research Center, Lahore, Pakistan, between January 2011 and May 2018. Information regarding demographics and clinical and histopathological variables were extracted and analyzed. Of the 25 subjects, 16 (64%) were female. The median age of the sample was 35 years (range; 21 - 72 years).

Statistically significant associations were found between RFS and functional status of the tumor (p = 0.014), cortisol overproduction (p = 0.02), androgen excess (testosterone [p = 0.03] and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate [DHEA SO4] [p = 0.004]), Ki-67 score (p = 0.03), mitotic rate (p = 0.02), stratified mitotic rate (p = 0.01), and composite variable of disease (p = 0.004). The OS was found to have statistical associations with cortisol hypersecretion (p = 0.02), DHEA SO4 excess (p = 0.01), Modified Weis Score (p < 0.001), mitotic rate (p = 0.02), stratified mitotic rate (p = 0.003), and composite variable of disease (p = 0.001). Linear regression (forward-type) analysis suggested that the functional status of the tumor and the disease recurrence index statistically predicted the variance in RFS and OS, respectively.

Multiple clinical and histopathological variables appear to affect the prognosis of ACC. However, based on multivariable analysis, it appears that the functional status of the tumor and the composite variable of disease recurrence are predictors of RFS and OS, respectively.

High Prevalence of Adrenal Remnant Tissue in Patients Undergoing Bilateral Adrenalectomy for Cushing's Disease

Bilateral adrenalectomy (BLA) is a treatment option for patients with Cushing's Disease (CD) if transsphenoidal pituitary surgery fails or is not a therapeutic option. For most patients, BLA eliminates endogenous glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid production, but for a small number of patients, endogenous secretion of adrenal hormones from adrenal tissue continues or recurs, leading to signs and symptoms of hypercortisolism. If adrenal tissue is confined to the adrenal bed, it is considered adrenal remnant tissue, while if it is outside the adrenal bed, it is considered adrenal rest tissue. We retrospectively evaluated morning serum cortisol, nighttime serum cortisol, nighttime salivary cortisol, and 24-h urine free cortisol on at least three occasions in 10 patients suspected of having endogenous cortisol production. Imaging of adrenal remnant tissue was also reviewed. Ten of 51 patients who underwent BLA during this time period had adrenal remnant/rest tissue marked by detectable endogenous glucocorticoid production; 9 of the 10 patients had signs and symptoms of hypercortisolism. Localization and treatment proved difficult. We conclude that the incidence of adrenal remnant/rest tissue in those undergoing BLA following unsuccessful pituitary surgery was 12% although there may have been a selection bias affecting this prevalence. The first indication of remnant tissue occurrence is a reduction in glucocorticoid replacement with symptoms of hypercortisolism. If this occurs, endogenous cortisol production should be tested for by cortisol measurements using a highly specific cortisol assay while the patient is taking dexamethasone or no glucocorticoid replacement. Endocrinologists need to monitor the development of both adrenal remnant tissue and Nelson's syndrome following BLA.

Surgical Management of Advanced Adrenocortical Carcinoma: A 21-year Population-based Analysis

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine malignancy with a dismal prognosis. When diagnosed in advanced stages of the disease, the outcomes of surgical resection are not well understood. The objective of this study is to determine the impact of surgery in patients with advanced ACC. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database, we identified patients diagnosed with Stage III and IVACC between 1988 and 2009. A total of 320 patients with Stage III and IV disease were included in our analysis. In patients treated with surgical resection, the Stage III 1- and 5-year survival rates were 77 and 40 per cent, respectively, whereas the Stage IV 1- and 5-year survival rates were 54 and 27.6 per cent, respectively. Patients treated without surgery had poor survival at 1 year for both Stage III (13%) and Stage IV (16%) ( P < 0.01 compared with the surgical groups). Lymph node dissection was performed in 26 per cent of the patients with advanced ACC and was associated with improved survival in univariate analysis of Stage IV patients. Overall, our results indicate that favorable survival outcomes can be achieved even in patients with Stage III and IV disease and surgery should be considered in patients with advanced ACC.

Characteristics of adrenocortical carcinoma in South Korea: a registry-based nationwide survey

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) in South Korea.

METHODS

A nationwide, registry-based survey was conducted to identify pathologically proven ACC at 25 tertiary care centers in South Korea between 2000 and 2014. Cox proportional hazard model and log-rank test were adopted for survival analysis.

RESULTS

Two hundred four patients with ACC were identified, with a median follow-up duration of 20 months (IQR 5-52 months). The median age at diagnosis was 51.5 years (IQR 40-65.8 years), and ACC was prevalent in women (n = 110, 53.9%). Abdominal pain was the most common clinical symptom (n = 70, 40.2%), and ENSAT stage 2 was most common (n = 62, 30.4%) at the time of diagnosis. One hundred sixty-nine patients underwent operation, while 17 were treated with other modalities. The remission rate was 48%, and median recurrence-free survival time was 46 months. Estimated 5-year recurrence-free rate was 44.7%. There were more women, large tumor, atypical mitosis, venous invasion, and higher mitotic count in cancer recurrence group. Estimated 5-year overall survival and disease-specific survival rates were 64.5 and 70.6%, respectively. Higher ENSAT stage and advanced pathologic characteristics were risk factors for all-cause mortality of ACC. Large tumor size and cortisol-secreting tumor were additional risk factors for ACC-specific death.

CONCLUSIONS

We report the first epidemiologic study regarding ACC in an Asian population. ENSAT stage 4; lymph node involvement; non-operative group; and invasion of vein, sinusoid, or capsule were associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality.

Development and validation of prognostic nomograms in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Predicting the prognosis of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is difficult, due to its unpredictable behavior. The aim of this study is to develop and validate a nomogram to predict survival outcomes in patients with ACC.

METHODS

Nomograms were established using the data collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Based on univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, we identified independent risk factors for overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Concordance indexes (c-indexes), the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) and calibration curve were used to evaluate predictive performance of these models. The clinical use of nomogram was measured by decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curves.

RESULTS

A total of 855 eligible patients, randomly divided into training (n = 600) and validation cohorts (n = 255), were included in this study. Based on the independent predictors, the nomograms were established and demonstrated good discriminative abilities, with C-indexes for OS and CSS were 0.762 and 0.765 in training cohorts and 0.738 and 0.758 in validation cohorts, respectively. The AUC and calibration plots also demonstrated a good performance for both nomograms. DCA indicated that the two nomograms provide clinical net benefits.

CONCLUSION

We unveiled the prognostic factors of ACC and developed novel nomograms that predict OS and CSS more accurately and comprehensively, which can help clinicians improve individual treatment, making proper clinical decisions and adjusting follow-up management strategies.

A phase 1 study of nevanimibe HCl, a novel adrenal-specific sterol O-acyltransferase 1 (SOAT1) inhibitor, in adrenocortical carcinoma

Background Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and aggressive malignancy with very limited treatment options. Nevanimibe HCl (formerly ATR-101), a novel adrenal-specific sterol O-acyltransferase 1 (SOAT1) inhibitor, has been shown in nonclinical studies to decrease adrenal steroidogenesis at lower doses and to cause apoptosis of adrenocortical cells at higher doses. Methods This phase 1, multicenter, open-label study assessed the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of nevanimibe in adults with metastatic ACC (NCT01898715). A "3 + 3" dose-escalation design was used. Adverse events (AEs), PK, and tumor response based on Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) version 1.1 were evaluated every 2 months. Results 63 patients with metastatic ACC, all of whom had previously failed systemic chemotherapy and only 2 of whom were mitotane-naïve, were dosed with oral nevanimibe at doses ranging from 1.6 mg/kg/day to 158.5 mg/kg/day. Subjects who did not experience tumor progression or a dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) could continue to receive additional cycles. No patients experienced a complete or partial response; however, 13 of the 48 (27%) patients who underwent imaging at 2 months had stable disease (SD), and 4 of these had SD > 4 months. In addition, drug-related adrenal insufficiency, considered a pharmacologic effect of nevanimibe, was observed in two patients. The most common treatment-emergent AEs were gastrointestinal disorders (76%), including diarrhea (44%) and vomiting (35%). A maximum tolerated dose (MTD) could not be defined, as very few dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) occurred. Because the large number of tablets required at the highest dose (i.e., ~24 tablets/day) resulted in low-grade gastrointestinal adverse effects, a maximum feasible dose of 128.2 mg/kg/day was established as a dose that could be taken on a long-term basis. Conclusions This study demonstrated the safety of nevanimibe at doses of up to ~6000 mg BID. As the total number of tablets required to achieve an MTD exceeded practical administration limits, a maximum feasible dose was defined. Given that the expected exposure levels necessary for an apoptotic effect could not be achieved, the current formulation of nevanimibe had limited efficacy in patients with advanced ACC.

Endoscopic Ultrasonography-guided Fine-needle Aspiration Revealed Metastasis-induced Acute Pancreatitis in a Patient with Adrenocortical Carcinoma

A 26-year-old woman complained of upper abdominal pain. Computed tomography (CT) showed acute pancreatitis, a left adrenal tumor and solitary right pulmonary metastasis. She underwent left adrenalectomy; the adrenal tumor was diagnosed as adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). When preparing to resect the pulmonary metastasis, she suffered a second acute pancreatic attack. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) showed that the proximal main pancreatic duct (MPD) was dilated, and the distal MPD was diminished; however, no pancreatic tumor was observed on CT or MRCP. Endoscopic ultrasonography revealed a solitary pancreatic mass, which was diagnosed as pancreatic metastasis from ACC by endoscopic ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration.

Identification of Seven Aberrantly Methylated and Expressed Genes in Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Background: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine malignancy with an unfavorable prognosis and limited treatment options. Nevertheless, no clinically applicable molecular markers have been identified for the progression of ACCs. DNA methylation alterations were found to contribute to the development of ACC in recent decades. Material and Methods: The aims of the current study was to identify the abnormally methylated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ACCs, and to elucidate the mechanistic basis for these changes. Analyses were conducted on gene expression and gene methylation profile datasets to identify the aberrantly methylated DEGs. The DAVID software was used to conduct the analyses of functional enrichment on screened genes. Finally, expression was validated, and the relationship between abnormally methylated DEGs and clinical features was determined via the Oncomine database and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). To further verify the altered expression and methylation status of our identified genes we also validated these changes at the tissue and cellular levels. Results: We screened and identified 92 differentially expressed genes and 802 abnormally methylated genes. Furthermore, seven aberrantly methylated and dysregulated genes were identified and validated, along with a number of functional enriched pathways. Among these seven genes, the expression or methylation status is significantly correlated with different pathological stages and overall rates of survival. In validation, the expression of seven genes were significantly altered and five genes were hypermethylated in ACC. Conclusions: Our study identified abnormally methylated DEGs and potentially affected pathways in ACCs, from which we could begin to understand the basic molecular mechanisms of these alterations. Moreover, these abnormally methylated genes might serve as therapeutic targets and biomarkers to allow ACC patients to be more precisely diagnosed and effectively treated.

Estrogen-secreting adrenocortical carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare type of endocrine malignancy with an annual incidence of approximately 1–2 cases per million. The majority of these tumors secrete cortisol, and a few secrete aldosterone or androgen. Estrogen-secreting adrenocortical carcinomas are extremely rare, irrespective of the secretion status of other adrenocortical hormones. Here, we report the case of a 53-year-old man with a cortisol and estrogen-secreting adrenocortical carcinoma. The patient presented with gynecomastia and abdominal discomfort. Radiological assessment revealed a tumor measuring 21×15.3×12 cm localized to the retroperitoneum. A hormonal evaluation revealed increased levels of estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and cortisol. The patient underwent a right adrenalectomy, and the pathological examination revealed an adrenocortical carcinoma with a Weiss’ score of 6. After surgery, he was treated with adjuvant radiotherapy. Twenty-one months after treatment, the patient remains alive with no evidence of recurrence.

Giant nonfunctioning adrenal tumors: two case reports and review of the literature

Background

There are an estimated 1–2 cases per million per year of adrenocortical carcinoma in the USA. It represents a rare and aggressive malignancy; it is the second most aggressive endocrine malignant disease after anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Non-secretory adrenal masses are diagnosed late due to a mass effect or metastatic disease or found incidentally (adrenal incidentalomas).

Case presentation

The first case report describes a 39-year-old Greek woman who presented to our department with complaints of repeated symptoms of flatulence and epigastric discomfort over a few months. The second case report is about a 67-year-old Greek woman who presented to our department after being evaluated for fatigue, mass effect, and epigastric discomfort. Both of them were diagnosed as having a nonfunctioning adrenocortical carcinoma and underwent open adrenalectomy.

Conclusions

Approximately 60% of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma present with symptoms and signs of hormonal secretion. Our cases’ adrenocortical carcinomas were not functional. Hormone secretion is not a discriminating feature between benign and malignant adrenocortical masses. The silent clinical nature of nonfunctioning adrenocortical carcinoma results in late diagnosis, while the majority of patients present with locally advanced and/or metastatic disease.

Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare endocrine tumor with a poor prognosis that can be diagnostically challenging and demands high clinical suspicion. The work-up for adrenal masses must include determination of whether the mass is functioning or nonfunctioning and whether it is benign or malignant.

Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Therapy, Treatment for Advanced Disease, and Genetic Considerations for Adrenocortical Carcinoma: An Update from the SSO Endocrine and Head and Neck Disease Site Working Group

This is the second of a two-part review on adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) management. While margin-negative resection provides the only potential cure for ACC, recurrence rates remain high. Furthermore, many patients present with locally advanced, unresectable tumors and/or diffuse metastases. As a result, selecting patients for adjuvant therapy and understanding systemic therapy options for advanced ACC is important. Herein, we detail the current literature supporting the use of adjuvant mitotane therapy, consideration of adjuvant radiation therapy, and utility of cytotoxic chemotherapy in patients with advanced disease. Ongoing investigation into molecular targeted agents, immunotherapy, and inhibitors of steroidogenesis for the treatment of ACC are also highlighted. Lastly, the importance of genetic counseling in patients with ACC is addressed as up to 10% of patients will have an identifiable hereditary syndrome.

Challenges in surgical pathology of adrenocortical tumours

Adrenocortical carcinomas are rare tumours that can be diagnostically challenging. Numerous multiparametric scoring systems and diagnostic algorithms have been proposed to differentiate adrenocortical adenoma from adrenocortical carcinoma. Adrenocortical neoplasms must also be differentiated from other primary adrenal tumours, such as phaeochromocytoma and unusual primary adrenal tumours, as well as metastases to the adrenal gland. Myxoid, oncocytic and sarcomatoid variants of adrenocortical tumours must be recognized so that they are not confused with other tumours. The diagnostic criteria for oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma are different from those for conventional adrenocortical carcinomas. Adrenocortical neoplasms in children are particularly challenging to diagnose, as histological features of malignancy in adrenocortical neoplasms in adults may not be associated with aggressive disease in the tumours of children. Recent histological and immunohistochemical studies and more comprehensive and integrated genomic characterizations continue to advance our understanding of the tumorigenesis of these aggressive neoplasms, and may provide additional diagnostic and prognostic utility and guide the development of therapeutic targets.

Mortality in Patients with Endogenous Cushing's Syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Cardiovascular events, sepsis, and thromboembolism are the leading causes of mortality. Patient's with Cushing's due to a pituitary adenoma and those with Cushing's due to benign adrenal adenoma have relatively good survival outcomes often mirroring that of the general population. Persistent or recurrent disease is associated with high mortality risk. Ectopic Cushing's syndrome and Cushing's due to adrenocortical carcinoma confer the highest mortality risk among Cushing's etiologies. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, and specific monitoring for and treatment of associated comorbidities are essential to decrease the burden of mortality from Cushing's.

'Malignant' hypertension from hyperaldosteronism: a case report

Adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) are rare with an incidence of 0.7-2 per million population per year and account for only 0.05%-2% of all malignant tumors. While majority of the functional ACC present as Cushing syndrome, recurrent hyperaldosteronism from metastatic ACC is exceedingly rare. We describe a 67-year old female presented with hypertensive urgency & hypokalemia as a result of hyperaldosteronism from an 8-cm right ACC. She underwent a radical right nephrectomy with adrenalectomy that normalized her blood pressure. However, a few years later she presented again with resistant hypertension from hyperaldosteronism, raising the suspicion of recurrence of ACC. A contrast-enhanced CT scan showed a normal left adrenal gland but revealed pulmonary metastases of ACC based on a lung biopsy. Chemotherapy was complicated with side effects leading to refusal of further chemotherapy, henceforth requiring high dose of spironolactone for blood pressure control. Despite curative surgery, metastatic functional ACC should be considered in patients presenting with secondary hypertension from recurrent hyperaldosteronism, due to its high recurrence rate. Besides standard cancer surveillance after a curative surgery, meticulous monitoring of blood pressure is a simple yet crucial way to detect cancer recurrence early.

Minimally invasive adrenal surgery: virtue or vice?

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy associated with poor prognosis despite available treatments. In patients with localized or locally advanced disease, complete resection with negative margins offers the only potential for cure. Unfortunately, most patients develop local and distant recurrence following initial resection highlighting the importance of meticulous surgical technique in the hands of an experienced surgeon. While minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has supplanted open surgery for small to medium-sized benign adrenal tumors, controversy surrounds the use of MIS for resection of ACC. We sought to provide an overview of the key oncological principles in the surgical management of ACC and to critically review the literature comparing outcomes between the open and MIS approaches.

Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis in the Adrenocortical Tumors

Adrenocortical tumors (ACT) are common adrenal tumors. The majority of ACTs are non-functioning and benign, while adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) are rare, usually very aggressive and often metastasized when first diagnosed. Our aim was to assess whether blood and lymph vessel density within ACTs correlate with the malignancy character or tumor functionality. For that, the microvascular distribution was evaluated by immunohistochemistry staining with D2-40 antibody, for lymph vessels and CD-31 antibody, for blood vessels, in ACCs (n = 15), adenomas with Cushing syndrome (n = 9) and non-functioning adenomas (n = 10). The percentage of stained area was quantified by computerized morphometric analysis. D2-40 expression was significantly lower in ACC as compared to adenomas with Cushing syndrome (p < 0.01) and correlated positively with the expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) (R² = 0.553, p < 0.001). CD31 expression was found to be significantly higher in ACC as compared to adenomas with Cushing syndrome (p < 0.05). Our results show that angiogenesis is increased in ACC, suggesting that this phenomenon may have an important role in ACT biological behavior, while lymph vascular density seems to be more closely related to the tumor functional status than malignancy.

Adrenocortical carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus

BACKGROUND

The safety, efficacy, and prognostic implications of resection of adrenocortical carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus are poorly described.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed during a 30-year period on patients who underwent resection of locally advanced, nonmetastatic adrenocortical carcinoma. We compared patients with and without inferior vena cava tumor thrombus, examining perioperative characteristics, completeness of resection, mortality, and survival.

RESULTS

We identified 65 patients who underwent resection of locally advanced (T4N0 and T4N1) adrenocortical carcinoma (28 patients with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus, 37 noninferior vena cava tumor thrombus). Rate of complete resection, adjuvant chemotherapy, and short-term postoperative morbidity was similar between groups. Overall survival was similar at 12-months. At 24 months overall survival was less in the inferior vena cava tumor thrombus group (59% vs 30%, P = .04). Differential survival through 60-month follow-up favored the noninferior vena cava tumor thrombus group (36% vs 0%, P = .001). Subgroup analysis including only patients with complete resection demonstrates similar survival at 24-months but at 36-months survival favored the noninferior vena cava tumor thrombus patients (65% vs 29%, P = .047) and this continued through 60 months (40% vs 0%, P = .049).

CONCLUSION

Attempt at complete resection of adrenocortical carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus seems justified particularly as short-term safety and survival are similar to patients without inferior vena cava tumor thrombus. However, survival beyond 36-months is limited in patients with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus. Patients being evaluated for resection in the setting of inferior vena cava tumor thrombus should be selected carefully.

Adrenal cortical carcinoma with tumor thrombus extension into the right atrium: A case report

Adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare aggressive malignant tumor associated with a poor prognosis. Patients with ACC usually present with abnormal hormone secretion, tumor growth or encroachment on the surrounding viscera. An early diagnosis of ACC is considered challenging. The present study reports a case of ACC with tumor thrombus extension into the inferior vena cava and right atrium. A 33-year-old male patient exhibited symptoms of gynecomastia and abdominal distention, which were due to the abnormal hormone secretion levels and to the presence of a large mass in the right adrenal gland. An en bloc resection of the tumor was the selected treatment option. Extirpation of the tumor thrombus was performed by means of extracorporeal circulation. No signs of metastasis or recurrence were identified at the 1-month follow-up.

Robot-assisted vs open adrenalectomy: evaluation of cost-effectiveness and peri-operative outcome

OBJECTIVES

To compare robot-assisted laparoscopic adrenalectomy (RALA) and open adrenalectomy (OA) with regard to intra-operative complications, peri-operative outcome and cost effectiveness.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Functional and statistical data from patients who underwent OA or RALA between 2001 and 2015 were prospectively recorded including intra- and postoperative outcomes. Data on per-day costs from current census reports (€540/day and €1 145/day for normal and intermediate care [IMC]) were also used to evaluate treatment costs. Additional costs for RALA were assumed at €2288 as reported in the current literature. Patients were matched by American Society of Anesthesiologists score, age, side of surgery and gender for comparison of OA and RALA. A total of 28 matched pairs were analysed with regard to patient characteristics, peri-operative outcomes and cost-effectiveness. Statistical significance of outcome variables was determined using Student's t-test and Pearson's chi-squared test.

RESULTS

As a result of the matching process, patient groups did not differ in their main characteristics. Length of hospital stay was shorter for RALA than for OA (11.1 ± 4.8 vs 6.8 ± 1.2 days; P < 0.01) as was IMC treatment (2.3 ± 1.7 vs 1.2 ± 0.4 days; P < 0.01). The mean operating time was longer for RALA (128.5 ± 46.5 vs 102.2 ± 44.5 min; P = 0.03), but the last 10 RALA procedures (mean: 97.1 ± 35.2 min) were similar to OA. The rate of complications was similar in the two groups. Estimated costs were €8 627.5 for OA and €7 334 for RALA.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed that RALA was safe and cost-effective compared with OA. Increasing experience leads to similar operating times, putting high-volume centres at an advantage.

Efficacy and safety of mitotane in the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma: A retrospective study in 34 Belgian patients

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of patient characteristics and mitotane use in the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) over a 4-year period in Belgium.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a multicentre retrospective review of the outcome of 34 patients treated with mitotane for ACC during the period [01/2008-12/2011] (12 diagnosed before and 22 diagnosed during the study period) and evaluated up to 06/2013.

RESULTS

Patient and tumour characteristics were consistent with those generally described for ACC. Mean age at diagnosis was 46.5 years, most patients were female (62%), had functioning ACC (65%) and advanced tumours (ENSAT stages III or IV: 82%). Therapeutic mitotane plasma levels (14-20 mg/L) were achieved at least once in 70% of the cohort, after a median of 4 months, and were maintained for more than 2 months in 61% of evaluable patients. Mitotane-related adverse effects were observed in 66% of patients, were never serious, and included gastrointestinal, neurological, neuropsychological, hormonal, dermatologic and metabolic effects. Most patients (88%) discontinued mitotane, mainly due to tumour progression. Multivariate analysis showed that ENSAT stage was a prognostic factor for overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS); OS was also influenced independently by achievement of therapeutic mitotane plasma levels for at least two consecutive months.

CONCLUSION

Patient and tumour characteristics were consistent with previously published data. OS and DFS were mostly influenced by ENSAT stage at diagnosis. Achieving therapeutic levels of mitotane for at least two consecutive months seemed to positively influence OS, but such levels were not reached or sustained in some patients.

Does nephrectomy during radical adrenalectomy for stage II adrenocortical cancer affect patient outcome?

PURPOSE

To evaluate if including nephrectomy in the standard surgical approach to stage II adrenocortical cancer (i.e., adrenalectomy) might modify oncologic outcome of patients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis involving 41 patients with stage II adrenocortical cancer (ACC) who had undergone radical surgery. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical procedure: group A = radical adrenalectomy alone, group AN = radical adrenalectomy + radical nephrectomy. Oncologic effectiveness of the procedures was tested comparing the recurrence-free and overall survival of patients of A vs AN groups.

RESULTS

The group A consisted of 25 patients and group AN of 16 patients. No differences were noted between the two groups in terms of demographic data and ACC characteristics. During follow-up, 15/25 (60 %) patients of group A vs 14/16 (87.5 %) patients of group AN experienced a recurrence, after a median of 36 months in group A and 10 months in group AN (p = 0.06); a significant impairment of renal function was recorded in patients of AN group with respect to those of group A. Finally, 13/25 (52 %) patients of group A and 10/16 (62.5 %) patients of group AN died due to ACC-related causes. No differences in survival times were noted (p = 0.3).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that adjunctive nephrectomy does not modify the oncologic results of adrenalectomy in the treatment of stage II ACC in terms of recurrence-free and overall survival. Thus, when there are no signs of ACC local invasion, surgeon should make every effort to preserve the kidney.

Pathway Implications of Aberrant Global Methylation in Adrenocortical Cancer

Context

Adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) are a rare tumor type with a poor five-year survival rate and limited treatment options.

Objective

Understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this disease has been aided by genomic analyses highlighting alterations in TP53, WNT, and IGF signaling pathways. Further elucidation is needed to reveal therapeutically actionable targets in ACC.

Design

In this study, global DNA methylation levels were assessed by the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip Array on 18 ACC tumors and 6 normal adrenal tissues. A new, non-linear correlation approach, the discretization method, assessed the relationship between DNA methylation/gene expression across ACC tumors.

Results

This correlation analysis revealed epigenetic regulation of genes known to modulate TP53, WNT, and IGF signaling, as well as silencing of the tumor suppressor MARCKS, previously unreported in ACC.

Conclusions

DNA methylation may regulate genes known to play a role in ACC pathogenesis as well as known tumor suppressors.

Adrenocortical Carcinoma Treated by CyberKnife

Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis. The effective treatment for advanced cancer remains unknown. A 61-year-old woman underwent CyberKnife treatment on a large adrenocortical carcinoma and tumor emboli in both pulmonary arteries. Follow-up positron emission tomography scanning with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) revealed that the FDG uptake was greatly decreased in all the tumors, and the hormone levels were also decreased. CyberKnife is a safe and effective treatment option for the non-operative large advanced adrenocortical carcinoma.

Adrenohepatic fusion: Adhesion or invasion in primary virilizant giant adrenal carcinoma? Implications for surgical resection. Two case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Adrenohepatic fusion means union between the adrenal gland and the liver, intermingling its parenchymas. It is not possible to identify this condition by image tests. Its presence implies radical and multidisciplinar approach.

PRESENTATION OF CASES

We report two female cases of 45 and 50 years old with clinical virilization and palpable mass on the abdominal right upper quadrant corresponding to adrenocortical carcinoma with hepatic fusion. The contrast-enhanced tomography showed an indistinguishable mass involving the liver and the right adrenal gland. In the first case, the patient had a two-time operation, the former removing only the adrenal carcinoma, and the second performing a radical surgery after an early relapse. In the second case, a radical right en bloc adrenohepatectomy was performed. Both cases were pathologically reported as liver-infiltrating adrenal carcinoma. Only in the second case the surgery was radical effective as first intention to treat, with 3 years of disease-free survival.

DISCUSSION

ACC is a rare entity with poor prognosis. The major indicators of malignancy are tumour diameter over 6cm, local invasion or metastasis, secretion of corticosteroids, virilization and hypertension and hypokalaemia. The parenchymal fusion of the adrenal cortical layer can be misdiagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma with adhesion with the Glisson capsule. AHF in such cases may be misinterpreted during surgery, what may impair its resectability, and therefore the survival. The surgical treatment must be performed en bloc, often using liver vascular control. Postoperative treatment must be offered immediately after surgery.

CONCLUSION

We report two consecutive rare cases of adrenohepatic fusion in giant right adrenocortical carcinoma, not detectable by imaging, what has important implications for the surgical decision-making. As radical surgery is the best choice to offer a curative treatment, it has to be performed by a multidisciplinary well-assembled team, counting with endocrine and liver surgeons, and transplant surgeons in case of vena cava involvement, in order to maximize the disease-free survival.

Surgical management of adrenocortical carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is rare but one of the most malignant endocrine tumors. This article reviews and summarizes the current knowledge about the treatment of ACC. The epidemiology and molecular events involved in the pathogenesis of ACC are briefly outlined. The different diagnostic tools to distinguish benign from malignant adrenocortical tumors, including biochemical analysis and imaging, are discussed. The surgical treatment of ACC has evolved in the last 2 decades. The different surgical alternatives for the treatment of ACC in the context of primary, recurrent, or metastatic disease are reviewed, and the remaining challenges and controversies are discussed.

C-MYC modulation induces responsiveness to paclitaxel in adrenocortical cancer cell lines

C-MYC is overexpressed in many types of cancer linked to poor prognosis. We examined the c-Myc protein expression in adrenocortical cancer (ACC) cells to investigate the role of this protein in the neoplasm, its involvement in chemotherapy and finally to determine whether c-Myc could be considered a prognostic factor in patients with ACC. H295R and SW13 cell lines were treated with paclitaxel. c-Myc overexpressing cell clones were achieved by transfecting the H295R cell line with the pcDNA3-hMYC plasmid expressing the full-lengh C-MYC coding sequence. The SW13 cell line was transfected with siRNA oligonucleotides for C-MYC. Cell cycle analysis was evaluated by flow cytometry. c-Myc, cyclin B1 and pro caspase expression levels were evaluated by western blot analysis. We found that expression of c-Myc was highly expressed in the SW13 cells, whereas the protein was undetectable in the H295R cells. Different doses of paclitaxel were required in the two ACC cell line to induce a block in the G2 phase, characterized by increased cyclin B1 levels and to induce apoptosis by pro-caspase-3 activation. Interestingly, the silencing of C-MYC mRNA prevented paclitaxel induced apoptosis in SW13 cells, whereas in the H295R cells the overexpression of C-MYC rendered the cells more prone to growth inhibition after paclitaxel exposure. The present study directly demonstrates that C-MYC plays a central role in controlling proliferation in ACC cells after paclitaxel treatment and that c-Myc could be considered as a marker for predicting response to chemotherapeutic agents in ACC cell lines.

Acute hypercortisolism: what can the surgeon offer?

Rapid onset or acute hypercortisolism is a rare critical illness requiring emergency management. The majority of patients will have underlying malignancy with surgery an obvious choice in the minority with resectable disease. For those with unresectable disease, medical management alone has been the traditional approach. However, this often proves inadequate raising interest in the role of surgery as palliation in this setting. Patient selection, timing of surgery and optimal surgical technique are areas of current controversy with little literature available to provide answers. Decisions regarding management of patients with acute hypercortisolism are complex, and these patients are best managed in a subspecialized setting.

Pulmonary Embolism as an Initial Presentation of Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinomas (ACCs) are rare and often aggressive with more than 50% of the cases already in stage III-IV (ENSAT) at the time of diagnosis. Nearly 60% of ACCs present with hormone overproduction syndromes (Cushing’s syndrome and/or virilization), while the rest present with abdominal mass or incidental finding. Aggressive surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment usually followed by adjuvant mitotane monotherapy. For the advanced stage, adjuvant radiotherapy and combined chemotherapy with mitotane therapy can be added for survival benefit. Here, we would like to report a case of stage III high-grade ACC without syndromes of hormone overproduction, initially presented with pulmonary embolism. It was rapidly progressive with metastases to lungs, peritoneum and bone despite aggressive surgery followed by adjuvant mitotane monotherapy. However, after palliative radiotherapy to thoraco-lumbar spine for spinal cord compression, and adding chemotherapy (six cycles of EDP: etoposide, doxorubicin, cisplatin) to mitotane, a significant partial remission was achieved. He has had 24 months of progression-free survival, and is currently on mitotane monotherapy with cortisol replacement. Discussion will support multimodality therapy for stage III high-grade ACC with surgery immediately followed by adjuvant radiotherapy and combined chemotherapy with mitotane therapy to prevent local recurrence and distant metastases.

Videoscopic adrenalectomy - when does retroperitoneal seem better?

INTRODUCTION

Videoscopic adrenalectomy is the gold standard for the surgical treatment of benign adrenal tumours. The two most common approaches are the lateral transperitoneal approach (LTA) and the posterior retroperitoneal approach (PRA). So far it has not been established which is the preferable one. The choice depends primarily on the surgeon's preference and contraindications for a particular approach in individual cases.

AIM

To compare the two most common approaches for videoscopic adrenalectomy, LTA and PRA, based on a literature review and our own experience.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We reviewed the literature (PubMed and Cochrane 1990 - current) and analysed retrospectively our own patients who underwent videoscopic adrenalectomy between 2009 and 2013. The analysis covered patient features, tumour characteristics, reasons for qualification for each approach, operative time and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Out of 71 videoscopic adrenalectomies, 50 were performed using PRA and 21 using LTA. Patients in the PRA group on average were older, but had smaller tumours. There was no significant difference in perioperative morbidity between PRA and LTA. Mean blood loss and total operative time were smaller/shorter for the PRA group in comparison to the LTA group. Time to first oral intake and the average postoperative hospital stay were shorter for PRA than LTA.

CONCLUSIONS

Videoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe and efficient technique performed using both LTA and PRA approaches. The choice of technique should be guided, most of all, by surgeon experience, patient characteristics, tumour size and location. Our preferable approach is PRA, especially for small (< 6 cm) benign tumours. We find LTA advantageous for tumours of larger size, with suspected malignant character (either primary or secondary), in ectopic position, as well as in patients lacking an ipsilateral kidney or when a simultaneous abdominal operation is planned.

Adrenocortical carcinoma posing as a pheochromocytoma: a diagnostic dilemma

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a malignant tumour arising from the adrenal cortex, whereas pheochromocytoma is a tumour of the adrenal medulla with occasional presence at extra-adrenal sites. Most of the adrenocortical tumours present clinically with Cushing's syndrome and signs of virilization due to over-production of the respective hormones. It is, however, rare for an adrenocortical tumour to present clinically as a pheochromocytoma. We report the case of a 45-year-old female presenting with clinical symptoms and signs of pheochromocytoma and investigations that resulted in a diagnostic dilemma. The histopathological examination confirmed the presence of ACC after the tumour was excised. This phenomenon was due to the presence of neuroendocrine features of ACC referred to, as a pseudo-pheochromocytoma with extremely limited data in the literature.

Adrenocortical carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine malignancy, often with an unfavorable prognosis. Here we summarize the knowledge about diagnosis, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and therapy of ACC. Over recent years, multidisciplinary clinics have formed and the first international treatment trials have been conducted. This review focuses on evidence gained from recent basic science and clinical research and provides perspectives from the experience of a large multidisciplinary clinic dedicated to the care of patients with ACC.

Functioning adrenocortical tumors in children-secretory behavior

OBJECTIVE

Adrenocortical tumors are rare childhood neoplasms. More than 95% are functional and present with virilization, Cushing's syndrome, hypertension, or hyperestrogenism. The objective of this paper is to present the clinical, laboratory and pathological findings of this rare disease and to highlight the secretory behavior of these tumors.

METHODS

Clinical and laboratory data of seven Iranian children and adolescents aged between 2 and 16 years with functioning adrenocortical tumors are presented. Five patients had virilization and two had Cushing's syndrome at the time of diagnosis. In all subjects, the tumors were removed successfully by open surgery, during which a blood sample was drawn from the corresponding adrenal vein for hormonal evaluation.

RESULTS

Peripheral blood evaluation revealed that in addition to the dominant hormone (testosterone in the cases presenting with virilization and cortisol in those with Cushing's syndrome), significant amounts of other hormones were secreted from these tumors. Adrenal vein evaluation revealed that testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, estradiol, 17(OH) progesterone, and cortisol were directly released from the tumor. The tumors weighed between 36-103 grams. The patients have since been followed for 5 to 20 years, and there have been no signs or symptoms of relapse in any of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The study shows that functioning adrenocortical tumors should be considered in children and adolescents presenting with hyperandrogenism, Cushing's syndrome, or hyperestrogenism. A diagnosis of a functioning adrenocortical tumor requires surgical removal as early as possible to prevent the untoward effects of virilization or corticosteroid excess. Evaluation of adrenal vein hormones showed that the steroids are secreted directly from the tumor and peripheral conversion has little contribution to the serum levels.

Mitotane-induced hyperlipidemia: a retrospective cohort study

Limited data are available about mitotane-nduced hyperlipidemia. We retrospectively analyzed lipid data in 38 patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) who received mitotane therapy with emphasis on HDL cholesterol (HDL-c) and clinical predictors of lipid changes. At baseline, the mean levels of HDL-c, LDL-c, and triglycerides were 53.3 mg/dL, 114.4 mg/dL, and 149 mg/dL, respectively. HDL-c, LDL-c, and triglyceride concentrations significantly increased with mitotane therapy to a mean HDL peak (HDL-P) of 86.3 mg/dL (P < 0.001), a mean LDL peak of 160.1 mg/dL (P < 0.001), and a mean triglyceride peak (Tg-P) of 216.7 mg/dL (P = 0.042). HDL-P positively correlated with mitotane concentration (r = 0.52, P < 0.001), while LDL-P levels and Tg-P did not. Gender, body mass index, cortisol overproduction, baseline levels of HDL-c, and triglyceride did not predict change in HDL-c. Similar changes were noticed in subgroup analysis after excluding patients who were using lipid-lowering agents. In conclusion, in ACC patients, mitotane caused significant increases in HDL-c that may counteract the deleterious atherosclerotic effects of LDL-c and Tg rise. Understanding the mechanism of HDL change may lead to the discovery of novel HDL-c-elevating drugs.

Current and emerging therapeutic options in adrenocortical cancer treatment

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a very rare endocrine tumour, with variable prognosis, depending on tumour stage and time of diagnosis. The overall survival is five years from detection. Radical surgery is considered the therapy of choice in the first stages of ACC. However postoperative disease-free survival at 5 years is only around 30% and recurrence rates are frequent. o,p'DDD (ortho-, para'-, dichloro-, diphenyl-, dichloroethane, or mitotane), an adrenolytic drug with significant toxicity and unpredictable therapeutic response, is used in the treatment of ACC. Unfortunately, treatment for this aggressive cancer is still ineffective. Over the past years, the growing interest in ACC has contributed to the development of therapeutic strategies in order to contrast the neoplastic spread. In this paper we discuss the most promising therapies which can be used in this endocrine neoplasia.

Lower expression of ATM and gene deletion is more frequent in adrenocortical carcinomas than adrenocortical adenomas

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine malignancy accounting for approximately 0.02-0.2% of all cancer deaths. The molecular pathogenesis of ACC has been the hot topic of recent reviews but it is still poorly understood. It is imperative to have a better understanding on the pathophysiology of ACC so as to establish precise diagnosis and effective treatment. This study aims to identify the molecular markers between ACCs and adrenocortical adenomas (ACAs). With MLPA, we checked on 10 ACA and 9 ACC tissue samples. The MLPA results showed deletion on chromosomes 18q, 11q, 11p, and 13q and duplication on chromosomes 3q, 4q, 6p, and 19p. There was a significant difference in the number of aberration copies of the ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) gene located on chromosome 11q22-q23 between ACCs and ACAs. Five out of 9 (56%) ACC specimens had deletion of ATM (P = 0.011). RT-PCR result then demonstrated that ATM mRNA level is lower in ACCs than in ACAs (P < 0.001). In addition, immunohistochemistry (IHC) study of the 19 ACA and 18 ACC samples confirmed lower expression of ATM protein in ACCs than in ACAs (P < 0.001). The study demonstrated that ATM expression was diminished in ACC than in ACA, suggesting an important role of ATM in the tumorigenesis of ACC.

Multiple retroperitoneal schwannomas mimicking adrenal tumors

Schwannomas are benign tumors mostly arising from the head and neck. Retroperitoneal schwannomas are rare. Here we report the case of a 68-year-old woman with multiple retroperitoneal schwannomas. An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan showed 1 non-enhancing mass with a low-density area, 4.6 cm in diameter, in the left adrenal region and another non-enhancing mass with a low-density area, 2.9 cm in diameter, in the para-aortic region. The patient had regularly undergone CT scans for malignant tumor screening in maintenance dialysis patients. Retrospectively, the 2 tumors had existed in the same regions in previous CT scans and had gradually increased in size. The tumors were completely resected. Pathological diagnosis of both tumors was schwannoma. When a CT scan shows a slowly growing retroperitoneal tumor with a low-density area, schwannoma should be considered. If the tumor increases in size, complete resection should be performed for pathological diagnosis.

Adrenocortical carcinoma: past, present, and future

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine malignancy. Due to its rarity, heterogeneity, and a lack of a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis, little progress has been made in treatment and outcomes. The current review explores the past, present, and future of the understanding and treatment of this disease process.

Dysregulation of microRNAs in adrenocortical tumors

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that are involved in the epigenetic regulation of cellular processes. Different malignancies are often associated with the deregulation of specific sets of miRNAs. The prognosis of adrenocortical cancers (ACCs) is very poor as compared to adrenocortical adenomas (ACAs), and even within ACCs there are cases with better disease specific survival. An improved understanding of the pathobiology of this disease will therefore be useful in facilitating better management of ACCs as well as distinguishing high risk versus low risk subgroups. One third of coding genes are regulated by miRNAs and therefore changes in miRNA expression may be associated with cancer development and progression. In this review we summarize the current understanding of miRNAs in adrenocortical tumors, and highlight their potential in differentiating between ACCs and ACAs, risk stratification and prognosis.

Wnt/β-catenin signalling in adrenal physiology and tumour development

Wnt/β-catenin signalling plays essential roles during embryonic development and in adult tissue homeostasis. Canonical signalling through Wnt secreted ligands relies on the control of β-catenin cytoplasmic accumulation and translocation to the nucleus. In this compartment, β-catenin serves as a transcription coactivator for transcription factors such as Lef/Tcf or some nuclear receptors. Constitutive Wnt signalling resulting from inactivation of inhibitors of the pathway or from activating mutations in β-catenin, triggers tumour development in a number of tissues. Analysis of patients' samples and genetically engineered mouse models has shown that Wnt signalling was involved in adrenal development and tumourigenesis. This review will summarise all these recent findings and will focus on some of the mechanisms that may lead to aberrant accumulation of β-catenin in adrenocortical tumours.

Clinical and imaging overview of functional adrenal neoplasms

Adrenal adenoma, adrenocortical carcinoma, pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma are four discrete adrenal neoplasms that have the potential for functional activity. Functional adrenal neoplasms can secrete cortisol, aldosterone, sex hormones or catecholamines. These heterogeneous groups of tumors show varied biological behavior and clinical outcomes. These neoplasms are encountered with increasing clinical frequency as a result of an expansion in the volume of medical imaging carried out. The clinical presentation, including prognosis and treatment options, and the imaging features of these neoplasms are discussed. The key radiological observations of each of these neoplasms are shown using multimodality images. Familiarity with the clinical and imaging features of these neoplasms improves diagnosis, and facilitates appropriate clinical decision-making and patient management.

Pulmonary resection for metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma: the National Cancer Institute experience

BACKGROUND

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare neoplasm with a high propensity for locoregional recurrences and distant metastases for which there are no effective systemic therapies. This study was undertaken to determine outcomes of patients undergoing pulmonary metastasectomy for ACC.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective review was performed of patients undergoing pulmonary metastasectomy for ACC from 1979 to 2010.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients underwent 60 pulmonary metastasectomies. Fifteen patients (58%) underwent unilateral thoracotomy, 6 (23%) had staged thoracotomies, and 5 (19%) underwent median sternotomy as the initial thoracic procedure. Median number and size of lesions were 6 and 2 cm, respectively. Twenty-three patients (88%) were rendered free of disease in the lung, and 14 (54%) were rendered completely free of disease. Median overall and 5-year actuarial survivals from initial pulmonary metastasectomy were 40 months and 41%, respectively, with a median potential follow-up of 120 months. Median recurrence-free survival (RFS) and 5-year RFS for ipsilateral thoracic recurrences were 6 months, and 25%, respectively. The median RFS in the contralateral thorax was 5 months. Time to first recurrence after adrenalectomy and T stage of the primary tumor, but not adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy, were associated with increased overall survival after pulmonary metastasectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents the most comprehensive review of outcomes of patients undergoing pulmonary metastasectomy for ACC. Given the lack of effective systemic therapies, pulmonary metastasectomy may be beneficial in properly selected patients.

Adrenocortical carcinoma presenting as varicocele and renal vein thrombosis: a case report

Introduction

Adrenocortical carcinomas are rare aggressive tumors. Their annual incidence is approximately one to two per million among the population of the United States of America. Patients with active endocrine tumors often present with Cushing's syndrome accompanied by virilizing features. Conversely, patients with non-functioning tumors may present with symptoms related to a mass-occupying lesion, such as abdominal pain and flank pain. Although varicoceles and acute kidney injuries are common problems in medicine, they are uncommon presentations of these rare tumors and easy to miss. We report a case of a large adrenocortical carcinoma that presented as testicular pain, varicocele, and acute kidney injury secondary to renal vein thrombosis.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old Caucasian man with a left-sided varicocele presented to our emergency department with lower abdominal pain and a decrease in urination. Four months previously, he had noticed pain and swelling in his left groin and had been diagnosed with left-sided varicocele. For one week, he began developing left-sided abdominal pain and decreased urination frequency, so he came to our emergency department for evaluation. His physical examination revealed a hard mass occupying the entire left side of his abdomen, crossing the midline, and extending to the pelvic brim. His blood tests showed acute kidney injury and mild anemia. Computed tomography of his abdomen showed a large retroperitoneal mass on the left side, displacing the left kidney inferiorly and the spleen superiorly with thoracic epidural compression. Thrombus was also identified in his left renal vein and inferior vena cava. Computed tomography of his chest showed bilateral pulmonary nodules. A computed tomography-guided abdominal mass biopsy was performed, and the diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma was made on the basis of pathology and immunohistochemistry. His hormonal evaluations were normal. His kidney function improved with intravenous hydration and anti-coagulation treatment. Unfortunately, the adrenal mass was unresectable because of the extent of the tumor. Treatment with mitotane, an adrenocorticolytic drug, was started with concomitant with irradiation of a lesion at T5, followed by combination chemotherapy thereafter.

Conclusion

Unilateral right-sided varicoceles are rare and should alert the clinician to possible underlying pathology causing inferior vena caval obstruction. Left-sided varicoceles, in contrast, are common secondary to the venous anatomy of the left testis; however, the enlargement of the left testicle can be associated with blockage of the left testicular vein by tumor invasion of the left renal vein. Varicoceles could be an early presentation of a non-functioning adrenocortical carcinoma. Acute kidney injury can occur as a result of mass effect or thrombosis of renal vessels. Large tumors can cause abdominal pain as a late manifestation. Physicians should perform a complete abdominal examination in every patient with varicocele or testicular pain.

Liver resection and ablation for metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare disease without effective chemotherapy treated most appropriately with resection. The aim of this study was to evaluate our experience with liver resection for metastatic ACC.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective review of patients who underwent liver resection or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for ACC from 1979 to 2009.

RESULTS

A total of 27 patients were identified. Of the 27, 19 underwent liver resection. Of the 19, 10 had a single liver lesion, and 18 of 19 were rendered free of disease in the liver, although only 11 of 19 were rendered completely free of disease because of extrahepatic disease (EHD). Of the 19, 13 had synchronous EHD. Also, 6 of 17 remained disease free in the liver at a median follow-up of 6.2 years (status of 2 of 19 was unknown). Of the 27 patients, 8 underwent RFA, 7 of 8 became free of disease in the liver, and 5 of 7 had EHD. No patients responded to prior chemotherapy. Median overall survival and survival of patients who underwent liver resection or RFA were both 1.9 years (0.2-12 + years); 5-year actuarial survivals were 29% and 29%, respectively. Disease-free interval (DFI) greater than 9 months from primary resection was associated with longer survival (median 4.1 vs 0.9 years; P = .013).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is a tertiary institution series of liver resection and RFA for ACC. Given the lack of effective systemic treatment options and the safety of resection and ablation, liver resection or RFA may be considered in selected patients with ACC metastatic to the liver especially with a long DFI.