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Adrenal gland tumours

Adrenal cortical cancer

Adrenal cortical cancer (ACC) is a very rare type of adrenal gland tumour. The adrenal glands are next to the kidneys and make hormones that control important body functions.

This page is about ACC which starts in the outer layer of the adrenal glands. Cancer that starts in the inner layer of the adrenal glands is called phaeochromocytoma. 

Go to our information about phaeochromocytomas

What is adrenal cortical cancer?

Adrenal cortical cancer is also called adrenocortical carcinoma. It is a very rare type of adrenal gland tumour. It starts in the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal gland.

Getting diagnosed and stages of adrenal cortical cancer

Tests to diagnose adrenal cortical cancer include blood tests and scans such as CT scans. The tests you have help your doctor know about the stage of your cancer.

Treatment for adrenal cortical cancer

Read about the different treatments that you might have for adrenal cortical cancer and about research in this area.

Last reviewed: 07 Mar 2025

Next review due: 07 Mar 2028

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