[Malignant non-secreting cortico-adrenalomas. Four cases (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Adrenal cortex tumors are rare neoplasms.
• Malignant adrenal cortex tumors present unique diagnostic challenges.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for patient outcomes.

Observation:

• Three out of four malignant adrenal cortex tumor cases presented with prolonged fever and inflammatory syndrome.
• Preoperative diagnosis was achieved in only one case.
• Tumors were discovered intraoperatively in two cases and post-mortem in one.

Findings:

• Malignant adrenal cortex tumors are rare.
• Common presenting symptoms include chest pain, hypochondrium mass, metastases, and general symptoms like high fever.
• Prognosis is poor, with most patients dying within six months of surgery.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of atypical presentations like prolonged fever is needed.
• Diagnostic strategies for adrenal cortex tumors require refinement.
• Improved surgical and oncological management may enhance survival rates.