Adjuvant Radiotherapy After Surgical Resection Improves Local Control in Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare cancer known for its high recurrence rate. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy on the outcomes of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma.

We examined patients with adrenocortical carcinoma who had undergone curative tumor resection. Tumor stages were classified using the European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors staging system. Out of 131 patients, 15 underwent adjuvant radiotherapy. Patients who underwent surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy were compared with those who underwent surgery only.

Baseline characteristics were similar between the adjuvant radiotherapy (n = 15) and control groups (n = 30). Local recurrence occurred in three patients (20%) who received adjuvant radiotherapy and 18 patients (60%) in the control group (p < 0.05). The estimated 3-year locoregional-free survival was significantly higher in the adjuvant radiotherapy group (77%) compared to the control group (38.1%, p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in recurrence-free or overall survival between the two groups.

Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy significantly enhances local control of adrenocortical carcinoma. It should be considered a crucial component of treatment, particularly for patients at high risk of recurrence.