What Is Adrenal Cancer and Where Does It Occur?
Adrenal cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the adrenal glands—small glands located on top of each kidney. These glands are responsible for producing vital hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline.
Adrenal cancer typically refers to adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), a rare and aggressive cancer that may spread to nearby organs or distant sites like the liver or lungs if not treated early.
Key Facts:
- Often diagnosed in individuals aged 40–60, but can also affect children
- May be functional (hormone-producing) or non-functional
- Detected incidentally or due to hormone-related symptoms
- Requires early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary treatment approach
What Are the Types of Adrenal Tumors or Cancers?
India's oncology specialists classify adrenal tumors based on origin, hormone activity, and metastatic behavior. The main types include:
1. Adrenocortical Carcinoma (ACC):
- Most common adrenal malignancy
- May produce excess cortisol or other hormones
- Fast-growing and often diagnosed at advanced stages
2. Pheochromocytoma (Malignant Form):
- Originates from adrenal medulla (inner layer)
- Produces adrenaline or noradrenaline
- Malignant forms are rare but can spread
3. Metastatic Tumors to Adrenal Glands:
- Cancer that spreads from other organs (e.g., lung, kidney, melanoma)
- Requires systemic treatment based on primary site
4. Neuroblastoma (Pediatric cases):
- Occurs in children and originates from adrenal nerve tissue
- Requires pediatric oncology intervention
In India, adrenal tumors are evaluated using hormone panels, imaging, and biopsy to accurately define the tumor type and tailor treatment.
Who Needs Adrenal Cancer Treatment and What Are the Symptoms?
Anyone diagnosed with an adrenal tumor—especially if malignant or hormone-producing—requires timely evaluation and treatment. Symptoms may be subtle or severe depending on hormone secretion and tumor size.
Common Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain or fullness
- High blood pressure or rapid heartbeat
- Weight gain or unexplained weight loss
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
- Irregular menstrual cycles (in women)
- Deepening voice or facial hair (in hormone-secreting tumors)
- Back or flank pain in larger tumors
When Treatment Is Required:
- Tumor size >4 cm
- Confirmed malignancy (via imaging or biopsy)
- Hormonal imbalance due to cortisol, aldosterone, or androgens
- Metastatic spread to lymph nodes, liver, or lungs
India offers rapid access to multidisciplinary oncology care, including endocrinologists, surgeons, radiologists, and medical oncologists, for accurate staging and immediate treatment planning.
How Is Adrenal Cancer Diagnosed in India?
Diagnosis of adrenal cancer in India involves a combination of blood tests, imaging, and pathology, all of which are available quickly and affordably.
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Approach:
1. Hormone Blood Tests:
- Cortisol, ACTH, aldosterone, testosterone, DHEA-S
- 24-hour urine tests for catecholamines (in pheochromocytoma)
2. Imaging Studies:
- CT scan or MRI of the abdomen and pelvis to assess tumor size, location, and spread
- PET-CT scan for staging and metastasis detection
- Chest X-ray or CT chest to evaluate lung metastases
3. Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) or Biopsy:
- May be performed for non-functional tumors or metastatic disease
- Usually avoided if functional tumor is suspected (to prevent hormonal crisis)
4. Histopathology and Immunohistochemistry:
- Confirms malignancy, tumor origin, and hormonal receptors
Indian cancer centers provide same-day imaging and lab services, allowing for diagnosis and treatment planning to happen within a few days of arrival.
What Are the Treatment Options for Adrenal Cancer in India?
India offers a comprehensive set of treatment options for adrenal cancer depending on the stage, type, hormonal activity, and spread of the tumor. Treatment usually involves one or a combination of the following:
1. Surgical Removal (Adrenalectomy):
- Primary treatment for localized adrenocortical carcinoma or functional tumors
- Can be done using open, laparoscopic, or robotic methods
- Removes the affected adrenal gland (and lymph nodes, if needed)
- May be curative if detected early
2. Chemotherapy:
- Used for advanced, recurrent, or metastatic cases
- Common agents include:
Mitotane (adrenolytic drug)
Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Etoposide (EDP-M regimen)
- Often used post-surgery or when surgery isn’t feasible
3. Radiation Therapy:
- Used for local recurrence or symptom control in metastases
- Delivered using external beam radiation therapy (EBRT)
4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy:
- Under evaluation in clinical trials
- May be used in select patients with advanced disease
5. Hormonal Management:
- In hormone-producing tumors, patients may require medications to control excess hormones (e.g., steroids, antihypertensives, anti-androgens)
Indian oncologists follow international treatment protocols and personalize therapy based on staging, hormone levels, and patient health status.
What Is the Step-by-Step Treatment Protocol in India?
India provides a streamlined, multidisciplinary treatment protocol that minimizes delays and supports international patients throughout.
1. Initial Evaluation:
- Detailed review of symptoms and medical history
- Hormone level tests and tumor imaging (CT/MRI)
- PET-CT scan for staging
2. Tumor Board Discussion:
- Endocrinologist, oncologist, urologist, and radiologist collaborate
- Treatment plan finalized based on diagnostic data
3. Pre-operative Preparation:
- Adrenal hormone control (especially for pheochromocytoma)
- Blood pressure and heart rate stabilization
- Nutritional assessment and anesthesia clearance
4. Surgery (if indicated):
- Performed under general anesthesia
- May involve open or laparoscopic adrenalectomy
- Hospital stay: 3–5 days for laparoscopic; 5–7 for open
5. Post-operative Recovery and Histopathology:
- Pain management, hormone replacement (if needed)
- Histopathology results available in 4–5 days
6. Further Therapy (If Required):
- Chemo/radiation started based on pathology and stage
- Mitotane therapy may continue for 1–2 years in high-risk cases
7. Follow-Up and Monitoring:
- Routine imaging and hormone testing every 3–6 months
- Virtual follow-ups available for international patients
Healzone helps coordinate every step—from airport pickup to follow-up planning—ensuring an efficient and supportive journey.
What Devices, Techniques, and Medications Are Used in India?
India uses internationally certified tools, implants, and medications for adrenal cancer treatment.
Surgical Techniques & Devices:
- Laparoscopic/Robotic adrenalectomy kits
- Ultrasonic scalpel and harmonic dissectors
- Surgical staplers and vessel sealers
- High-definition laparoscopes and energy platforms
Medications Used:
- Mitotane (main adrenolytic drug)
- Chemotherapy agents: Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Etoposide
- Steroids (hydrocortisone, dexamethasone)
- Blood pressure medications for pheochromocytoma (e.g., phenoxybenzamine)
Radiation and Imaging Equipment:
- Linear accelerator for external beam radiation
- PET-CT and 3T MRI for diagnosis and surveillance
All medications and devices used in India are FDA/CE approved, sourced from international pharmaceutical and medical device companies.
What Is the Cost Breakdown of Adrenal Cancer Treatment in India?
The cost varies based on whether treatment is surgical, medical (chemo), or both. Below is a typical breakdown:
|
Treatment Component |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
|
Specialist Consultation |
$40 – $60 |
|
Hormone Blood Tests |
$80 – $150 |
|
CT/MRI Scan |
$100 – $300 |
|
PET-CT Scan |
$400 – $600 |
|
Open/Laparoscopic Surgery |
$2,000 – $3,500 |
|
Mitotane Therapy (monthly) |
$300 – $500 |
|
Chemotherapy (per cycle) |
$500 – $800 |
|
Radiation Therapy (total) |
$1,200 – $2,000 |
|
Hospital Stay (3–5 days) |
$400 – $700 |
|
Medications & Post-op care |
$200 – $300 |
Total Average Range: $5,000 – $9,000
(Includes surgery + initial tests + short-term medication + follow-up care)
Healzone offers pre-approved, fixed-price treatment packages, which simplify planning and minimize unexpected expenses for international patients.
What Procedure Types Are Used for Adrenal Cancer Treatment in India?
Indian hospitals offer both conventional and advanced procedures for adrenal tumors, customized to tumor size, location, hormone production, and patient health.
1. Open Adrenalectomy:
- Standard approach for large or invasive tumors
- Involves a larger incision in the abdomen or back
- Allows complete tumor removal, even when spread is suspected
- May include lymph node dissection
2. Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy:
- Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a laparoscope
- Preferred for tumors <6 cm, especially if non-invasive
- Lower blood loss, faster healing, shorter hospital stay
3. Robotic-Assisted Adrenalectomy:
- Uses robotic surgical systems for enhanced precision
- Enables delicate dissection near vessels and organs
- Used in specialized centers, suitable for bilateral or complex cases
4. Debulking Surgery (Palliative):
- Removes as much tumor mass as possible in advanced cancer
- Helps improve quality of life when full resection is not feasible
India’s surgical teams follow global cancer surgery protocols, offering optimal outcomes while preserving hormonal balance and minimizing complications.
What Are the Advantages of Getting Adrenal Cancer Treatment in India?
India is increasingly recognized as a global leader in oncology and surgical oncology, particularly for rare and complex cancers like adrenal tumors.
Key Advantages for International Patients:
- Cost Efficiency: 60–85% lower cost than US or UK
- Access to World-Class Surgeons: With training from top global institutions
- Advanced Technology: Including robotic surgery, PET-CT, and modern radiation platforms
- Multidisciplinary Teams: Collaborative care involving oncologists, endocrinologists, pathologists, and surgeons
- Minimal Wait Time: Consultations, scans, and surgery often completed within 5–7 days of arrival
- Customized Treatment Packages: Including surgery, medication, rehab, accommodation, and interpreters
India combines clinical expertise with compassionate care, making it a highly sought-after destination for adrenal cancer treatment.
Why Should International Patients Choose Healzone for Adrenal Cancer Care?
Healzone is a trusted medical tourism facilitator that provides end-to-end coordination for international patients seeking affordable, high-quality care in India.
Why Healzone Stands Out:
Verified Partner Hospitals Only:
- Accredited by NABH, JCI, or ISO
- Equipped with full oncology, surgical, and critical care infrastructure
Fixed Pricing & No Hidden Charges:
- Transparent quotes including surgery, stay, diagnostics, and medications
Complete Travel Assistance:
- Visa support, airport transfers, hotel booking near hospitals
- Local support staff fluent in English and multiple languages
Personalized Case Management:
- One-to-one relationship managers assigned for each patient
- Coordination of appointments, tests, and reports
Post-Treatment Support:
- Follow-up teleconsultations
- Help with documentation for insurance claims
- Remote rehab and medication delivery (if required)
Healzone ensures that every step of your treatment in India is safe, coordinated, affordable, and stress-free.
What Pre- and Post-Treatment Precautions Should International Patients Follow?
Before Treatment:
- Share all medical reports, imaging, and pathology before travel
- Disclose current medications, especially blood thinners and hormonal drugs
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and strenuous activities 7 days prior
- Stay well hydrated and follow a light diet pre-admission
After Surgery or Treatment:
- Follow a low-sodium, high-protein diet for recovery
- Take prescribed medications (e.g., steroid replacement, chemo) regularly
- Monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and hormone levels as advised
- Attend virtual follow-ups as scheduled
- Avoid lifting heavy weights or traveling long distances for 4–6 weeks
- Report any signs of infection, fatigue, or pain to your care team promptly
Healzone provides printed and digital care instructions, language support, and real-time coordination to ensure you or your loved one recovers smoothly—whether in India or back home.
Adrenal cancer treatment in India offers advanced diagnostics, expert surgery, essential medications, and continuous monitoring—all at a cost that makes life-saving care accessible for international patients. With Healzone’s personalized coordination and hospital partnerships, your experience will be smooth, safe, and medically optimized
