Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) presents primarily through hormone overproduction, leading to symptoms like rapid weight gain, high blood pressure, and virilization, or through physical pressure from the tumor mass causing abdominal pain. Symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) vary significantly based on whether the tumor is "functional" (secreting hormones) or "non-functional" (silent until it grows large). What are the most common symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC)? Symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) are largely dictated by the specific hormones the tumor produces.
6 people with Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
Which are the symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC)?
Symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) reported by real patients, from the most common to the most limiting, plus a medically reviewed summary with sources.
Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) presents primarily through hormone overproduction, leading to symptoms like rapid weight gain, high blood pressure, and virilization, or through physical pressure from the tumor mass causing abdominal pain. Symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) vary significantly based on whether the tumor is "functional" (secreting hormones) or "non-functional" (silent until it grows large).
What are the most common symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC)?
Symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) are largely dictated by the specific hormones the tumor produces. Approximately 60% of cases are functional. Common manifestations include:
- Cushing’s Syndrome: Rapid weight gain, central obesity, moon face, and purple stretch marks.
- Virilization (in women): Excessive body hair growth (hirsutism), deepening voice, and menstrual irregularities.
- Feminization (in men): Breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia) and decreased libido.
- Hyperaldosteronism: High blood pressure and muscle weakness due to low potassium levels.
How do symptoms of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) progress?
In the early stages, non-functional tumors are often asymptomatic, which is why Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. As the tumor grows, it may cause dull abdominal or flank pain, a feeling of fullness, or a palpable mass. Over time, as the cancer progresses, systemic symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, fever, and unintentional weight loss often emerge, significantly impacting a patient's daily quality of life.
When should I seek medical attention for Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC)?
You should seek immediate medical evaluation if you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, signs of adrenal crisis (such as profound hypotension, vomiting, or confusion), or rapid onset of physical changes like facial swelling or sudden hirsutism. Early detection is critical, and the 265 members of the DiseaseMaps community with Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) emphasize the importance of tracking these changes closely with an endocrinologist.
Next steps
- Consult an endocrinologist and an oncologist specializing in adrenal malignancies.
- Keep a symptom log to track hormonal shifts and physical changes for your clinical team.
- Join the DiseaseMaps.org community to connect with others sharing their experiences with Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC).
- Discuss genetic counseling with your physician, as some cases are linked to hereditary syndromes like Li-Fraumeni.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice; always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific health condition.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma
- Orphanet: Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma
- American Cancer Society: Symptoms of Adrenal Cancer
- National Cancer Institute (NCI): Adrenocortical Carcinoma Treatment (PDQ)
Posted Jun 11, 2017 by Grace 500
Common signs and symptoms involve progressive obesity and skin changes, such as:
-Weight gain and fatty tissue deposits, particularly around the midsection and upper back, in the face (moon face), and between the shoulders (buffalo hump)
-Pink or purple stretch marks (striae) on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, breasts and arms
-Thinning, fragile skin that bruises easily
-Slow healing of cuts, insect bites and infections
- Acne
Women with Cushing syndrome may experience:
-Thicker or more visible body and facial hair (hirsutism)
-Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Men with Cushing syndrome may experience:
-Decreased libido
-Decreased fertility
-Erectile dysfunction
Other signs and symptoms include:
--Muscle weakness
-Depression, anxiety and irritability
-Loss of emotional control
-Cognitive difficulties
-New or worsened high blood pressure
-Headache
-Bone loss, leading to fractures over time
In children, impaired growth
Posted Jun 11, 2017 by Sherry 200
Posted Mar 9, 2018 by Accmom 2500
Posted May 22, 2018 by Kim 1600
Analyses sang : polyglobulie
Abdomen gonflé : dès que l'on mange sensation de satiété
Posted Feb 26, 2019 by Flor 400
Posted Feb 26, 2019 by Tania 100
