Pediatric adrenocortical carcinoma: what to know

The adrenal glands sit above the kidneys and make hormones. A tumour in the adrenal cortex can release excess hormones, which may lead to early puberty, increased body hair, changes in growth, acne, or signs related to cortisol. Some children instead have abdominal discomfort, a fullness or mass, or no obvious symptom at first.

Assessment may combine a physical examination, hormone testing, and scans of the adrenal area. The team considers the tumour's size, whether it has spread, hormone activity, and the child's overall health. These details guide treatment planning and follow-up.

A child with a suspected adrenal tumour should be assessed by a specialist team experienced in childhood cancers and hormone conditions. Bring a record of changes in growth, puberty, appetite, abdominal symptoms, medicines, and any previous scans. Treatment may include tumour removal surgery, with chemotherapy considered in selected situations.

Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, marked weakness, breathing difficulty, or sudden confusion. Contact the treating team promptly for rapidly worsening swelling or pain, new severe headache, major changes in drinking or urination, or a sudden change in a child's alertness.

Ask which hormones are being tested, what the scans show, whether surgery can remove the tumour, why chemotherapy may be considered, how hormone changes will be managed, and what follow-up schedule the child needs.