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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Large adrenocortical carcinoma
Kristian L Brown1, Daniel Bacal
1Detroit Medical Center/ Wayne State University School of Medicine, 4201 St. Antoine Blvd, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. kbrown6@dmc.org
Adrenal cortical carcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, presents significant surgical challenges. This case report details the successful resection of a large, nonfunctional tumor encasing a kidney, contributing to knowledge on managing these difficult cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine malignancy with a poor prognosis.
- Large tumor size and adherence to adjacent organs complicate surgical resection of ACCs.
Observation:
- A case of a massive, 19-cm, nonfunctional ACC encasing the right kidney is presented.
- The tumor's large size and adherence posed significant surgical challenges.
Findings:
- Successful surgical resection of the massive, nonfunctional ACC was achieved.
- The case demonstrates the feasibility of complete tumor removal despite extensive local invasion.
Implications:
- This report adds valuable clinical data on the surgical management of large adrenal cortical carcinomas.
- Understanding the presentation and surgical outcomes of rare ACCs can improve patient care and treatment strategies.
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