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Pigmented adrenocortical carcinoma: case report and review
Jordan L Geller1, Paul C Azer, Lawrence M Weiss
1Department of INternal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
Endocrine Pathology
|February 20, 2007
Summary
Malignant "black adenomas" (pigmented adrenocortical neoplasms) are exceptionally rare. This case highlights a pigmented adrenocortical tumor that recurred and metastasized eight years after initial resection.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Surgical Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Pigmented adrenocortical neoplasms, or "black adenomas," are typically benign.
- Malignant behavior and metastasis are exceedingly rare in these tumors.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old female presented with Cushing's syndrome and a darkly pigmented adrenal tumor.
- Histological examination revealed atypical features, classifying it as a neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential.
Findings:
- The patient experienced recurrence with metastatic disease eight years post-adrenalectomy.
- Multiple pigmented nodules in the retroperitoneum were consistent with local recurrence and metastasis.
Implications:
- This case challenges the presumed benign nature of pigmented adrenocortical neoplasms.
- It underscores the importance of long-term surveillance for atypical adrenal cortical tumors, even those with pigmented histology.
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