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

Ann Surg Oncol. 2018 Nov;25(12):3453-3459. doi: 10.1245/s10434-018-6750-9. Epub 2018 Sep 14.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / genetics
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / pathology
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Adrenalectomy
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / genetics
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / secondary
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / therapy*
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Genetic Counseling*
  • Humans
  • Mitotane / administration & dosage
  • Radiotherapy

Substances

  • Mitotane