# What are the available treatment options for adrenal gland cancer? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hi-khiarat-alaj-almutaha-lisaratan-alghudat-alkazaria Language: en Category: oncology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.232Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.232Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-hi-khiarat-alaj-almutaha-lisaratan-alghudat-alkazaria Treatment options for adrenal gland cancer depend primarily on the type and stage of the cancer. Surgery is the primary treatment option, with chemotherapy or radiation therapy also used in certain cases. The goal of treatment is to remove cancer cells and control the spread of the disease. The treatment plan may vary from person to person based on a comprehensive medical assessment. ## Surgery: The primary option for treating adrenal gland cancer Surgery, specifically adrenalectomy, is the most common method for treating adrenal gland cancer [\[1\]](). This procedure is performed to remove the affected adrenal gland entirely, and the surgeon may decide to remove one or both glands depending on the case [\[1\]](). Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and prevent pain [\[1\]](). There are two main approaches for performing an adrenalectomy: - **Open surgery:** Involves making one large surgical incision to remove the gland [\[1\]](). - **Laparoscopic surgery:** Involves making several small incisions; recovery time after this method is often faster compared to open surgery [\[1\]](). The surgeon determines the most appropriate approach based on the size and location of the tumor and the patient's overall health condition [\[1\]](). After the gland is removed, it is sent to a pathologist to be examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of cancer [\[1\]](). ## Adjuvant therapies for adrenal gland cancer In addition to surgery, adjuvant therapies may be recommended to help destroy remaining cancer cells or slow the growth of the tumor. These treatments include: - **Chemotherapy:** Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth [\[2\]](). - **Radiation therapy:** Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells [\[2\]](). The need for these treatments is determined based on the type of adrenal gland cancer, such as adrenocortical carcinoma, the stage of the disease, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body [\[2\]](). ## Preparation for and recovery from adrenal gland surgery Preparing for an adrenalectomy requires some important steps. The patient must inform the surgeon of any medications they are taking, including herbal supplements, and they may be asked to temporarily stop taking blood thinners before surgery [\[1\]](). If the patient suffers from other medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, they may be asked to consult the doctor managing those conditions [\[1\]](). After surgery, the patient may need to stay in the hospital for one or two days [\[1\]](). Blood pressure will be monitored, and the patient may receive pain medication [\[1\]](). It is recommended to start walking and doing some light activities after surgery to aid recovery [\[1\]](). Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is usually faster than from open surgery [\[1\]](). ## Post-treatment follow-up After treatment for adrenal gland cancer, regular follow-up with the doctor is essential. This helps monitor for any signs of the cancer returning or the development of complications [\[1\]](). Follow-up may include periodic check-ups and blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, especially if the adrenal glands have been removed, as the body may need to replace the hormones it no longer produces [\[1\]](). For more information about this disease, you can visit the page [Adrenal Gland Cancer: Diagnosis, Types, and Treatment Options (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Adrenal gland removal]() - [Adrenal Gland Cancer]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hi-khiarat-alaj-almutaha-lisaratan-alghudat-alkazaria#answer