The prevalence of Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) is relatively rare, with an estimated incidence of 0.7-2 cases per million people per year. ACC accounts for only 0.05-0.2% of all cancers, making it a highly uncommon malignancy. However, it is important to note that ACC can occur at any age, with a peak incidence in the fourth and fifth decades of life. The prognosis for ACC is generally poor, as it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with ACC.
Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and aggressive malignancy that arises from the outer layer of the adrenal glands, known as the adrenal cortex. It accounts for only a small fraction of all cancers, with an estimated prevalence of approximately 0.7 to 2 cases per million people per year.
ACC affects both children and adults, but it is more commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 40 and 50. It exhibits a slightly higher incidence in females compared to males.
Although ACC is considered a rare cancer, it is important to note that its prevalence may be underestimated due to misdiagnosis or lack of reporting. The exact cause of ACC remains largely unknown, but certain genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, have been associated with an increased risk.
ACC is often diagnosed at an advanced stage when the tumor has already spread to other organs, making it challenging to treat. The prognosis for ACC is generally poor, with a 5-year survival rate ranging from 16% to 47% depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis.
Given the rarity of ACC, it is crucial to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public to facilitate early detection and improve treatment outcomes.