ON THIS PAGE: You will read about the scientific research being done now to learn more about this type of tumor and how to treat it. To see other pages, use the menu.
Doctors are working to learn more about adrenal gland tumors, ways to prevent them, how to best treat them, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with them. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Always talk with your doctor about the diagnostic and treatment options best for you.
Immunotherapy. Immunotherapy, also called biologic therapy, is designed to boost the body's natural defenses to fight a tumor. It uses materials made either by the body or in a laboratory to improve, target, or restore immune system function. The effectiveness of immunotherapy as a treatment for an adrenal gland tumor is being researched in clinical trials. Learn more about the basics of immunotherapy.
Molecular markers. Studies analyzing the role of genes and proteins in a person’s tumor are underway. The focus of these studies is to help fine-tune the diagnosis of adrenal gland tumors and predict treatment results.
Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) tumors. SDH is a specialized protein that plays an important role in the body’s metabolism. Researchers think that when this gene is inactivated, it results in cancer, including adrenal gland tumors.
Palliative care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current adrenal gland tumor treatments to improve patients’ comfort and quality of life.
Looking for More About the Latest Research?
If you would like additional information about the latest areas of research regarding adrenal gland tumors, explore these related items that take you outside of this guide:
To find clinical trials specific to your diagnosis, talk with your doctor or search online clinical trial databases now.
Visit the website of the Conquer Cancer Foundation to find out how to help support research for every cancer type. Please note this link takes you to a separate ASCO website.
The next section in this guide is Coping with Treatment. It offers some guidance in how to cope with the physical, emotional, and social changes that a tumor and its treatment can bring. Or, use the menu to choose another section to continue reading this guide.