[Deoxycorticosterone-producing adrenocortical carcinoma--a case report]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nephrology
• Oncology

Background:

• Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare malignancy with diverse clinical presentations.
• Deoxycorticosterone (DOC)-producing tumors are exceptionally rare subtypes, often associated with distinct hormonal imbalances.

Observation:

• A 39-year-old male presented with gross hematuria, left lower abdominal discomfort, and hydronephrosis.
• Imaging revealed a left renal mass, and endocrinological studies showed elevated serum deoxycorticosterone (DOC) levels without hypertension.
• Laboratory data indicated hypokalemia, a potential indicator of mineralocorticoid excess.

Findings:

• Pathological diagnosis confirmed adrenocortical carcinoma.
• Post-surgical normalization of serum DOC and potassium levels confirmed the tumor as the source of hormone overproduction.
• The patient experienced an uneventful recovery and remained disease-free at 12-month follow-up.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering rare hormone-secreting tumors in the differential diagnosis of renal masses with atypical presentations.
• Early diagnosis and surgical resection are crucial for favorable outcomes in DOC-producing adrenocortical carcinoma.
• Further research into the specific mechanisms and clinical management of DOC-producing adrenocortical tumors is warranted.