The endocrine glands consist of a group of different glands located in various parts of the body. They secrete certain hormones that directly control the performance of vital functions in the body. The hormones secreted by the endocrine system regulate digestion, growth, and sleep, and control people's moods.
It is worth noting that endocrine cancer is a rare type of cancer, and thyroid cancer is the most common type of endocrine cancer.
This is the most common type and accounts for the majority of endocrine tumors. The tumor may be cancerous or non-cancerous. A punctate tumor can also cause an increase in the secretion of endocrine-active hormones, leading to hormonal disturbances in the body.
This is another rare type of endocrine tumor, believed to arise from residual cells from the upper part of the embryonic alimentary canal. A chromophobe tumor can be benign or malignant and can affect the endocrine glands and surrounding structures, causing problems with vision, hormonal glands, and development.
The hypothalamus is located in the brain. Hypothalamic cancer can cause numerous problems in the body, given that this gland plays an important role in maintaining balance within the body.
Pituitary tumors are considered benign in most cases, which means they are not cancerous. They are abnormal cells that grow in the pituitary gland, located behind the nose at the base of the brain.
Some of these tumors cause the pituitary gland to secrete excessive amounts of certain hormones that control important bodily functions. These tumors can be treated in various ways. The tumor can be surgically removed, and sometimes hormone levels can be controlled with drug therapy. In addition, doctors may combine these treatments in some cases.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor in the thyroid gland. It develops in the gland located in the neck, which controls blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, weight, and other vital body functions.
It's worth noting that thyroid cancer is considered a rare type of cancer. Furthermore, it's considered curable and causes few deaths.
The parathyroid glands contain four glands located directly behind the thyroid gland. It's worth noting that parathyroid cancer is considered a rare type of cancer, and those over the age of 30 are most at risk.
The cause of this type of cancer is unclear, as it is difficult to diagnose and grows slowly.
Adrenal cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the adrenal gland, located behind the kidneys. It can begin in one or both of these small glands.
The adrenal gland secretes hormones that are essential for life, including sex hormones and cortisol, which perform important body functions.
Adrenal cancer can occur at any age, but it is most likely to affect children under the age of 5 and adults in their 40s and 50s.
In some cases, the tumor may be small, noncancerous, and not causing noticeable symptoms. In these cases, doctors may decide to monitor the tumor regularly through medical examinations and imaging to assess for any changes.
Surgery is usually performed through the skull (craniotomy) or through the nose (transphenoidal surgery), depending on the size and location of the tumor. The goal of surgery is to remove the entire tumor, or as much as possible, while preserving normal endocrine function.
Radiation therapy is used in some cases to control tumor growth or reduce its size after surgery. Low-dose radiation is typically used to reduce the risk of affecting sensitive surrounding tissue.
In cases of an endocrine tumor that secretes excess hormones or causes hormonal disturbances, medications may be used to regulate hormone secretion and reduce associated symptoms.
Each case must be evaluated individually, and the appropriate decision should be made based on a comprehensive assessment of symptoms and diagnosis. An endocrinologist (endocrinologist or neurologist) should be consulted to determine the most appropriate treatment for a specific case.