INCIDENTALLY FOUND ADRENOCORTICAL CARCINOMA - A STUDY OF 21 PATIENTS

The frequency of adrenocortical carcinoma was studied in a group of 31 1 incidentally discovered adrenal tumours. Clinical characteristics we re also analysed. Ultrasound scan and computed tomography were the mai n imaging techniques used. Hormonal examinations were also carried out . The patients with an adrenal tumour diameter greater than or equal t o 4.0 cm, and those with excess steroid production were recommended fo r surgery. Of 131 patients treated with surgery, adrenocortical carcin oma was diagnosed in 21 cases. The diameter of these tumours ranged be tween 3.2 and 20.0 cm. The majority of these were hormonally inactive, but, in some cases increased corticosteroid secretion was noted. In 1 7/21 patients, mitotane was administered following surgery, with a goo d response in 13 cases. These 21 cases were compared with a group of 5 1 patients with clinically overt adrenocortical carcinoma. (C) 1998 El sevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.