Skip to main content
Top
Published in: Virchows Archiv 1/2012

Open Access 01-01-2012 | Review and Perspective

Adrenocortical neoplasia: evolving concepts in tumorigenesis with an emphasis on adrenal cortical carcinoma variants

Authors: Ronald R. de Krijger, Thomas G. Papathomas

Published in: Virchows Archiv | Issue 1/2012

Login to get access

Abstract

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare, heterogeneous malignancy with a poor prognosis. According to WHO classification 2004, ACC variants include oncocytic ACCs, myxoid ACCs and ACCs with sarcomatous areas. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of these rare subtypes of adrenocortical malignancy and emphasize their clinicopathological features with the aim of elucidating aspects of diagnostic categorization, differential diagnostics and biological behavior. The issue of current terminology, applied to biphasic tumors with pleomorphic, sarcomatous or sarcomatoid elements arising in adrenal cortex, is also discussed. We additionally present emerging evidence concerning the adrenal cortical tumorigenesis and the putative adenoma–carcinoma sequence as well.
Literature
1.
go back to reference Fassnacht M, Libe R, Kroiss M, Allolio B (2011) Adrenocortical carcinoma: a clinician's update. Nat Rev Endocrinol 7:323–335PubMedCrossRef Fassnacht M, Libe R, Kroiss M, Allolio B (2011) Adrenocortical carcinoma: a clinician's update. Nat Rev Endocrinol 7:323–335PubMedCrossRef
2.
go back to reference McNicol AM (2011) Update on tumours of the adrenal cortex, phaeochromocytoma and extra-adrenal paraganglioma. Histopathology 58:155–168PubMedCrossRef McNicol AM (2011) Update on tumours of the adrenal cortex, phaeochromocytoma and extra-adrenal paraganglioma. Histopathology 58:155–168PubMedCrossRef
3.
go back to reference Lau SK, Weiss LM (2009) The Weiss system for evaluating adrenocortical neoplasms: 25 years later. Hum Pathol 40:757–768PubMedCrossRef Lau SK, Weiss LM (2009) The Weiss system for evaluating adrenocortical neoplasms: 25 years later. Hum Pathol 40:757–768PubMedCrossRef
4.
go back to reference Aubert S, Wacrenier A, Leroy X et al (2002) Weiss system revisited: a clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical study of 49 adrenocortical tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 26:1612–1619PubMedCrossRef Aubert S, Wacrenier A, Leroy X et al (2002) Weiss system revisited: a clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical study of 49 adrenocortical tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 26:1612–1619PubMedCrossRef
5.
go back to reference Blanes A, Diaz-Cano SJ (2007) Histologic criteria for adrenocortical proliferative lesions: value of mitotic figure variability. Am J Clin Pathol 127:398–408PubMedCrossRef Blanes A, Diaz-Cano SJ (2007) Histologic criteria for adrenocortical proliferative lesions: value of mitotic figure variability. Am J Clin Pathol 127:398–408PubMedCrossRef
6.
go back to reference Volante M, Bollito E, Sperone P et al (2009) Clinicopathological study of a series of 92 adrenocortical carcinomas: from a proposal of simplified diagnostic algorithm to prognostic stratification. Histopathology 55:535–543PubMedCrossRef Volante M, Bollito E, Sperone P et al (2009) Clinicopathological study of a series of 92 adrenocortical carcinomas: from a proposal of simplified diagnostic algorithm to prognostic stratification. Histopathology 55:535–543PubMedCrossRef
7.
go back to reference Tissier F (2010) Classification of adrenal cortical tumors: what limits for the pathological approach? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 24:877–885PubMedCrossRef Tissier F (2010) Classification of adrenal cortical tumors: what limits for the pathological approach? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 24:877–885PubMedCrossRef
8.
go back to reference Dehner LP, Hill DA (2009) Adrenal cortical neoplasms in children: why so many carcinomas and yet so many survivors? Pediatr Dev Pathol 12:284–291PubMedCrossRef Dehner LP, Hill DA (2009) Adrenal cortical neoplasms in children: why so many carcinomas and yet so many survivors? Pediatr Dev Pathol 12:284–291PubMedCrossRef
9.
go back to reference Bertherat J, Bertagna X (2009) Pathogenesis of adrenocortical cancer. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 23:261–271PubMedCrossRef Bertherat J, Bertagna X (2009) Pathogenesis of adrenocortical cancer. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 23:261–271PubMedCrossRef
10.
go back to reference Grumbach MM, Biller BM, Braunstein GD et al (2003) Management of the clinically inapparent adrenal mass (“incidentaloma”). Ann Intern Med 138:424–429PubMed Grumbach MM, Biller BM, Braunstein GD et al (2003) Management of the clinically inapparent adrenal mass (“incidentaloma”). Ann Intern Med 138:424–429PubMed
11.
go back to reference Sidhu S, Marsh DJ, Theodosopoulos G et al (2002) Comparative genomic hybridization analysis of adrenocortical tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 87:3467–3474PubMedCrossRef Sidhu S, Marsh DJ, Theodosopoulos G et al (2002) Comparative genomic hybridization analysis of adrenocortical tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 87:3467–3474PubMedCrossRef
12.
go back to reference Gruschwitz T, Breza J, Wunderlich H, Junker K (2010) Improvement of histopathological classification of adrenal gland tumors by genetic differentiation. World J Urol 28:329–334PubMedCrossRef Gruschwitz T, Breza J, Wunderlich H, Junker K (2010) Improvement of histopathological classification of adrenal gland tumors by genetic differentiation. World J Urol 28:329–334PubMedCrossRef
13.
go back to reference Kjellman M, Larsson C, Bäckdahl M (2001) Genetic background of adrenocortical tumor development. World J Surg 25:948–956PubMedCrossRef Kjellman M, Larsson C, Bäckdahl M (2001) Genetic background of adrenocortical tumor development. World J Surg 25:948–956PubMedCrossRef
14.
go back to reference Gicquel C, Leblond-Francillard M, Bertagna X et al (1994) Clonal analysis of human adrenocortical carcinomas and secreting adenomas. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 40:465–477CrossRef Gicquel C, Leblond-Francillard M, Bertagna X et al (1994) Clonal analysis of human adrenocortical carcinomas and secreting adenomas. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 40:465–477CrossRef
15.
go back to reference Beuschlein F, Reincke M, Karl M et al (1994) Clonal composition of human adrenocortical neoplasms. Cancer Res 54:4927–4932PubMed Beuschlein F, Reincke M, Karl M et al (1994) Clonal composition of human adrenocortical neoplasms. Cancer Res 54:4927–4932PubMed
16.
go back to reference Kjellman M, Roshani L, Teh BT et al (1999) Genotyping of adrenocortical tumors: very frequent deletions of the MEN1 locus in 11q13 and of a 1-centimorgan region in 2p16. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 84:730–735PubMedCrossRef Kjellman M, Roshani L, Teh BT et al (1999) Genotyping of adrenocortical tumors: very frequent deletions of the MEN1 locus in 11q13 and of a 1-centimorgan region in 2p16. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 84:730–735PubMedCrossRef
17.
go back to reference Bernard MH, Sidhu S, Berger N et al (2003) A case report in favor of a multistep adrenocortical tumorigenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 88:998–1001PubMedCrossRef Bernard MH, Sidhu S, Berger N et al (2003) A case report in favor of a multistep adrenocortical tumorigenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 88:998–1001PubMedCrossRef
18.
go back to reference Trezzi R, Poli F, Fellegara G (2009) “Dedifferentiated” adrenal cortical neoplasm. Int J Surg Pathol 17:343–344PubMedCrossRef Trezzi R, Poli F, Fellegara G (2009) “Dedifferentiated” adrenal cortical neoplasm. Int J Surg Pathol 17:343–344PubMedCrossRef
19.
go back to reference Gaujoux S, Tissier F, Groussin L et al (2008) Wnt/beta-catenin and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine 5'-monophosphate/protein kinase A signaling pathways alterations and somatic beta-catenin gene mutations in the progression of adrenocortical tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 93:4135–4140PubMedCrossRef Gaujoux S, Tissier F, Groussin L et al (2008) Wnt/beta-catenin and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine 5'-monophosphate/protein kinase A signaling pathways alterations and somatic beta-catenin gene mutations in the progression of adrenocortical tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 93:4135–4140PubMedCrossRef
20.
go back to reference Schmitt A, Saremaslani P, Schmid S et al (2006) IGFII and MIB1 immunohistochemistry is helpful for the differentiation of benign from malignant adrenocortical tumours. Histopathology 49:298–307PubMedCrossRef Schmitt A, Saremaslani P, Schmid S et al (2006) IGFII and MIB1 immunohistochemistry is helpful for the differentiation of benign from malignant adrenocortical tumours. Histopathology 49:298–307PubMedCrossRef
21.
go back to reference van't Sant HP, Bouvy ND, Kazemier G et al (2007) The prognostic value of two different histopathological scoring systems for adrenocortical carcinomas. Histopathology 51:239–245CrossRef van't Sant HP, Bouvy ND, Kazemier G et al (2007) The prognostic value of two different histopathological scoring systems for adrenocortical carcinomas. Histopathology 51:239–245CrossRef
22.
go back to reference de Reyniès A, Assié G, Rickman DS et al (2009) Gene expression profiling reveals a new classification of adrenocortical tumors and identifies molecular predictors of malignancy and survival. J Clin Oncol 27:1108–1115PubMedCrossRef de Reyniès A, Assié G, Rickman DS et al (2009) Gene expression profiling reveals a new classification of adrenocortical tumors and identifies molecular predictors of malignancy and survival. J Clin Oncol 27:1108–1115PubMedCrossRef
23.
go back to reference Giordano TJ, Kuick R, Else T et al (2009) Molecular classification and prognostication of adrenocortical tumors by transcriptome profiling. Clin Cancer Res 15:668–676PubMedCrossRef Giordano TJ, Kuick R, Else T et al (2009) Molecular classification and prognostication of adrenocortical tumors by transcriptome profiling. Clin Cancer Res 15:668–676PubMedCrossRef
24.
go back to reference Laurell C, Velázquez-Fernández D, Lindsten K et al (2009) Transcriptional profiling enables molecular classification of adrenocortical tumours. Eur J Endocrinol 161:141–152PubMedCrossRef Laurell C, Velázquez-Fernández D, Lindsten K et al (2009) Transcriptional profiling enables molecular classification of adrenocortical tumours. Eur J Endocrinol 161:141–152PubMedCrossRef
25.
go back to reference Ragazzon B, Libé R, Gaujoux S et al (2010) Transcriptome analysis reveals that p53 and {beta}-catenin alterations occur in a group of aggressive adrenocortical cancers. Cancer Res 70:8276–8281PubMedCrossRef Ragazzon B, Libé R, Gaujoux S et al (2010) Transcriptome analysis reveals that p53 and {beta}-catenin alterations occur in a group of aggressive adrenocortical cancers. Cancer Res 70:8276–8281PubMedCrossRef
26.
go back to reference Ragazzon B, Assié G, Bertherat J (2011) Transcriptome analysis of adrenocortical cancers: from molecular classification to the identification of new treatments. Endocr Relat Cancer 18:R15–R27PubMedCrossRef Ragazzon B, Assié G, Bertherat J (2011) Transcriptome analysis of adrenocortical cancers: from molecular classification to the identification of new treatments. Endocr Relat Cancer 18:R15–R27PubMedCrossRef
27.
go back to reference Bussey KJ, Demeure MJ (2009) Genomic and expression profiling of adrenocortical carcinoma: application to diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Future Oncol 5:641–655PubMedCrossRef Bussey KJ, Demeure MJ (2009) Genomic and expression profiling of adrenocortical carcinoma: application to diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Future Oncol 5:641–655PubMedCrossRef
28.
go back to reference Bussey KJ, Demeure MJ (2011) Toward a pathway-centered approach for the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma. Curr Opin Oncol 23:34–44PubMedCrossRef Bussey KJ, Demeure MJ (2011) Toward a pathway-centered approach for the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma. Curr Opin Oncol 23:34–44PubMedCrossRef
29.
go back to reference Martinerie C, Gicquel C, Louvel A et al (2001) Altered expression of novH is associated with human adrenocortical tumorigenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 86:3929–3940PubMedCrossRef Martinerie C, Gicquel C, Louvel A et al (2001) Altered expression of novH is associated with human adrenocortical tumorigenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 86:3929–3940PubMedCrossRef
30.
go back to reference Berthon A, Sahut-Barnola I, Lambert-Langlais S et al (2010) Constitutive beta-catenin activation induces adrenal hyperplasia and promotes adrenal cancer development. Hum Mol Genet 19:1561–1576PubMedCrossRef Berthon A, Sahut-Barnola I, Lambert-Langlais S et al (2010) Constitutive beta-catenin activation induces adrenal hyperplasia and promotes adrenal cancer development. Hum Mol Genet 19:1561–1576PubMedCrossRef
31.
go back to reference Tissier F, Cavard C, Groussin L et al (2005) Mutations of beta-catenin in adrenocortical tumors: activation of the Wnt signaling pathway is a frequent event in both benign and malignant adrenocortical tumors. Cancer Res 65:7622–7627PubMed Tissier F, Cavard C, Groussin L et al (2005) Mutations of beta-catenin in adrenocortical tumors: activation of the Wnt signaling pathway is a frequent event in both benign and malignant adrenocortical tumors. Cancer Res 65:7622–7627PubMed
32.
go back to reference Tadjine M, Lampron A, Ouadi L, Bourdeau I (2008) Frequent mutations of beta-catenin gene in sporadic secreting adrenocortical adenomas. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 68:264–270 Tadjine M, Lampron A, Ouadi L, Bourdeau I (2008) Frequent mutations of beta-catenin gene in sporadic secreting adrenocortical adenomas. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 68:264–270
33.
go back to reference Bonnet S, Gaujoux S, Launay P et al (2011) Wnt/{beta}-catenin pathway activation in adrenocortical adenomas is frequently due to somatic CTNNB1-activating mutations, which are associated with larger and nonsecreting tumors: a study in cortisol-secreting and -nonsecreting tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 96:E419–E426PubMedCrossRef Bonnet S, Gaujoux S, Launay P et al (2011) Wnt/{beta}-catenin pathway activation in adrenocortical adenomas is frequently due to somatic CTNNB1-activating mutations, which are associated with larger and nonsecreting tumors: a study in cortisol-secreting and -nonsecreting tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 96:E419–E426PubMedCrossRef
34.
go back to reference Tadjine M, Lampron A, Ouadi L et al (2008) Detection of somatic beta-catenin mutations in primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD). Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 69:367–373CrossRef Tadjine M, Lampron A, Ouadi L et al (2008) Detection of somatic beta-catenin mutations in primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD). Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 69:367–373CrossRef
35.
go back to reference Gaujoux S, Grabar S, Fassnacht M et al (2011) β-catenin activation is associated with specific clinical and pathologic characteristics and a poor outcome in adrenocortical carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 17:328–336PubMedCrossRef Gaujoux S, Grabar S, Fassnacht M et al (2011) β-catenin activation is associated with specific clinical and pathologic characteristics and a poor outcome in adrenocortical carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 17:328–336PubMedCrossRef
36.
go back to reference Durand J, Lampron A, Mazzuco TL, Chapman A, Bourdeau I (2011) Characterization of differential gene expression in adrenocortical tumors harboring {beta}-catenin (CTNNB1) mutations. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 96:E1206–E1211PubMedCrossRef Durand J, Lampron A, Mazzuco TL, Chapman A, Bourdeau I (2011) Characterization of differential gene expression in adrenocortical tumors harboring {beta}-catenin (CTNNB1) mutations. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 96:E1206–E1211PubMedCrossRef
37.
go back to reference Chapman A, Durand J, Ouadi L, Bourdeau I (2011) Identification of genetic alterations of AXIN2 gene in adrenocortical tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab (Epub ahead of print) Chapman A, Durand J, Ouadi L, Bourdeau I (2011) Identification of genetic alterations of AXIN2 gene in adrenocortical tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab (Epub ahead of print)
38.
go back to reference Kakimoto S, Yushita Y, Sanefuji T et al (1986) Non-hormonal adrenocortical adenoma with oncocytoma-like appearances. Hinyokika Kiyo 32:757–763PubMed Kakimoto S, Yushita Y, Sanefuji T et al (1986) Non-hormonal adrenocortical adenoma with oncocytoma-like appearances. Hinyokika Kiyo 32:757–763PubMed
39.
go back to reference Wong DD, Spagnolo DV, Bisceglia M et al (2011) Oncocytic adrenocortical neoplasms—a clinicopathologic study of 13 new cases emphasizing the importance of their recognition. Hum Pathol 42:489–499PubMedCrossRef Wong DD, Spagnolo DV, Bisceglia M et al (2011) Oncocytic adrenocortical neoplasms—a clinicopathologic study of 13 new cases emphasizing the importance of their recognition. Hum Pathol 42:489–499PubMedCrossRef
40.
go back to reference Saad R, Marsault S, Coloby P (2011) Adrenocortical oncocytic cells tumor: case report and review of literature. Prog Urol 21:288–290PubMed Saad R, Marsault S, Coloby P (2011) Adrenocortical oncocytic cells tumor: case report and review of literature. Prog Urol 21:288–290PubMed
41.
go back to reference Mwandila M, Waller H, Stott V, Mercer P (2010) A case of a testosterone-secreting oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma. N Z Med J 123:80–82PubMed Mwandila M, Waller H, Stott V, Mercer P (2010) A case of a testosterone-secreting oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma. N Z Med J 123:80–82PubMed
42.
go back to reference Rosenkrantz AB, Do RK, Hajdu CH (2010) Imaging appearance of bulk fat within an oncocytic adrenocortical neoplasm, a rare and potentially malignant tumour. Br J Radiol 83:e204–e207PubMedCrossRef Rosenkrantz AB, Do RK, Hajdu CH (2010) Imaging appearance of bulk fat within an oncocytic adrenocortical neoplasm, a rare and potentially malignant tumour. Br J Radiol 83:e204–e207PubMedCrossRef
43.
go back to reference Cham E, Watkin W, Goldschmidt R, Liu L (2010) Fine needle aspiration cytology of adrenocortical oncocytic neoplasm: a case report. Acta Cytol 54:627–634PubMed Cham E, Watkin W, Goldschmidt R, Liu L (2010) Fine needle aspiration cytology of adrenocortical oncocytic neoplasm: a case report. Acta Cytol 54:627–634PubMed
44.
go back to reference Ohtake H, Kawamura H, Matsuzaki M et al (2010) Oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma. Ann Diagn Pathol 14:204–208PubMedCrossRef Ohtake H, Kawamura H, Matsuzaki M et al (2010) Oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma. Ann Diagn Pathol 14:204–208PubMedCrossRef
45.
go back to reference Bisceglia M, Ben-Dor D, Pasquinelli G (2005) Oncocytic adrenocortical tumors. Pathol Case Rev 10:228–242CrossRef Bisceglia M, Ben-Dor D, Pasquinelli G (2005) Oncocytic adrenocortical tumors. Pathol Case Rev 10:228–242CrossRef
46.
go back to reference Bisceglia M, Ludovico O, Di Mattia A et al (2004) Adrenocortical oncocytic tumors: report of 10 cases and review of the literature. Int J Surg Pathol 12:231–243PubMedCrossRef Bisceglia M, Ludovico O, Di Mattia A et al (2004) Adrenocortical oncocytic tumors: report of 10 cases and review of the literature. Int J Surg Pathol 12:231–243PubMedCrossRef
47.
go back to reference Willems SM, Wiweger M, van Roggen JF, Hogendoorn PC (2010) Running GAGs: myxoid matrix in tumor pathology revisited: what's in it for the pathologist? Virchows Arch 456:181–192PubMedCrossRef Willems SM, Wiweger M, van Roggen JF, Hogendoorn PC (2010) Running GAGs: myxoid matrix in tumor pathology revisited: what's in it for the pathologist? Virchows Arch 456:181–192PubMedCrossRef
48.
go back to reference Papotti M, Volante M, Duregon E et al (2010) Adrenocortical tumors with myxoid features: a distinct morphologic and phenotypical variant exhibiting malignant behavior. Am J Surg Pathol 34:973–983PubMedCrossRef Papotti M, Volante M, Duregon E et al (2010) Adrenocortical tumors with myxoid features: a distinct morphologic and phenotypical variant exhibiting malignant behavior. Am J Surg Pathol 34:973–983PubMedCrossRef
49.
go back to reference Brown FM, Gaffey TA, Wold LE, Lloyd RV (2000) Myxoid neoplasms of the adrenal cortex: a rare histologic variant. Am J Surg Pathol 24:396–401PubMedCrossRef Brown FM, Gaffey TA, Wold LE, Lloyd RV (2000) Myxoid neoplasms of the adrenal cortex: a rare histologic variant. Am J Surg Pathol 24:396–401PubMedCrossRef
50.
go back to reference Raparia K, Ayala AG, Sienko A, Zhai QJ, Ro JY (2008) Myxoid adrenal cortical neoplasms. Ann Diagn Pathol 12:344–348PubMedCrossRef Raparia K, Ayala AG, Sienko A, Zhai QJ, Ro JY (2008) Myxoid adrenal cortical neoplasms. Ann Diagn Pathol 12:344–348PubMedCrossRef
51.
go back to reference Dundr P, Novák K (2003) Pseudoglandular myxoid adenoma of the adrenal gland. Pathol Res Pract 199:493–496PubMedCrossRef Dundr P, Novák K (2003) Pseudoglandular myxoid adenoma of the adrenal gland. Pathol Res Pract 199:493–496PubMedCrossRef
52.
53.
go back to reference Jang KY, Chung MJ, Moon WS et al (2009) Adrenocortical adenoma with unusual myxoid histological pattern: a case report. Pathology 41:188–191PubMedCrossRef Jang KY, Chung MJ, Moon WS et al (2009) Adrenocortical adenoma with unusual myxoid histological pattern: a case report. Pathology 41:188–191PubMedCrossRef
54.
go back to reference Ishida M, Yoshida K, Miyamoto K et al (2008) Cytological features of myxoid adrenocortical adenoma with a pseudoglandular component: a case report with differential diagnostic considerations. Diagn Cytopathol 36:576–580PubMedCrossRef Ishida M, Yoshida K, Miyamoto K et al (2008) Cytological features of myxoid adrenocortical adenoma with a pseudoglandular component: a case report with differential diagnostic considerations. Diagn Cytopathol 36:576–580PubMedCrossRef
55.
go back to reference Fine SW, Pindzola JA, Uhlman EJ, Epstein JI (2005) Pathologic quiz case: a 64-year-old man with an adrenal mass. Myxoid adrenal cortical neoplasm. Arch Pathol Lab Med 129:541–542PubMed Fine SW, Pindzola JA, Uhlman EJ, Epstein JI (2005) Pathologic quiz case: a 64-year-old man with an adrenal mass. Myxoid adrenal cortical neoplasm. Arch Pathol Lab Med 129:541–542PubMed
56.
go back to reference De Padua M, Rajagopal V (2008) Myxoid adrenal adenoma with focal pseudoglandular pattern. Indian J Med Sci 62:199–203PubMedCrossRef De Padua M, Rajagopal V (2008) Myxoid adrenal adenoma with focal pseudoglandular pattern. Indian J Med Sci 62:199–203PubMedCrossRef
57.
go back to reference Zhu Y, Wu YX, Zhang CY et al (2008) Myxoid adrenocortical adenoma: a case report. Chin Med J (Engl) 121:1598–1600 Zhu Y, Wu YX, Zhang CY et al (2008) Myxoid adrenocortical adenoma: a case report. Chin Med J (Engl) 121:1598–1600
58.
go back to reference Lu HS, Gan MF, Chen HS, Huang SQ (2008) Adrenal myelolipoma within myxoid cortical adenoma associated with Conn's syndrome. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 9:500–505PubMed Lu HS, Gan MF, Chen HS, Huang SQ (2008) Adrenal myelolipoma within myxoid cortical adenoma associated with Conn's syndrome. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 9:500–505PubMed
59.
go back to reference Bollito ER, Papotti M, Porpiglia F et al (2004) Myxoid adrenocortical adenoma with a pseudoglandular pattern. Virchows Arch 445:414–418PubMedCrossRef Bollito ER, Papotti M, Porpiglia F et al (2004) Myxoid adrenocortical adenoma with a pseudoglandular pattern. Virchows Arch 445:414–418PubMedCrossRef
60.
go back to reference Tang CK, Harriman BB, Toker C (1979) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma: a light and electron microscopic study. Arch Pathol Lab Med 103:635–638PubMed Tang CK, Harriman BB, Toker C (1979) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma: a light and electron microscopic study. Arch Pathol Lab Med 103:635–638PubMed
61.
go back to reference Forsthoefel KF (1994) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma. A case report with differential diagnostic considerations. Arch Pathol Lab Med 118:1151–1153PubMed Forsthoefel KF (1994) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma. A case report with differential diagnostic considerations. Arch Pathol Lab Med 118:1151–1153PubMed
62.
go back to reference Hsieh MS, Chen JH, Lin LW (2010) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma presenting as primary hyperaldosteronism: case report and review of the literature. Int J Surg Pathol (Epub ahead of print) Hsieh MS, Chen JH, Lin LW (2010) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma presenting as primary hyperaldosteronism: case report and review of the literature. Int J Surg Pathol (Epub ahead of print)
63.
go back to reference Karim RZ, Wills EJ, McCarthy SW, Scolyer RA (2006) Myxoid variant of adrenocortical carcinoma: report of a unique case. Pathol Int 56:89–94PubMedCrossRef Karim RZ, Wills EJ, McCarthy SW, Scolyer RA (2006) Myxoid variant of adrenocortical carcinoma: report of a unique case. Pathol Int 56:89–94PubMedCrossRef
64.
go back to reference Suresh B, Kishore TA, Albert AS, Joy A (2005) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma—a rare variant of adrenocortical carcinoma. Indian J Med Sci 59:505–507PubMedCrossRef Suresh B, Kishore TA, Albert AS, Joy A (2005) Myxoid adrenal cortical carcinoma—a rare variant of adrenocortical carcinoma. Indian J Med Sci 59:505–507PubMedCrossRef
65.
go back to reference Izumi M, Serizawa H, Iwaya K et al (2003) A case of myxoid adrenocortical carcinoma with extensive lipomatous metaplasia. Arch Pathol Lab Med 127:227–230PubMed Izumi M, Serizawa H, Iwaya K et al (2003) A case of myxoid adrenocortical carcinoma with extensive lipomatous metaplasia. Arch Pathol Lab Med 127:227–230PubMed
66.
go back to reference DeLellis RA, Lloyd RV, Heitz PU, Eng C (2004) World Health Organization classification of tumours. Pathology and genetics of tumours of endocrine organs. IARC, Lyon DeLellis RA, Lloyd RV, Heitz PU, Eng C (2004) World Health Organization classification of tumours. Pathology and genetics of tumours of endocrine organs. IARC, Lyon
67.
go back to reference Sturm N, Moulai N, Laverrière MH et al (2008) Primary adrenocortical sarcomatoid carcinoma: case report and review of literature. Virchows Arch 452:215–219PubMedCrossRef Sturm N, Moulai N, Laverrière MH et al (2008) Primary adrenocortical sarcomatoid carcinoma: case report and review of literature. Virchows Arch 452:215–219PubMedCrossRef
68.
go back to reference Travis WD, Brambilla E, Muller-Hermelink HK, Harris CC (2004) World Health Organization classification of tumours. Pathology and genetics of tumours of the lung, pleura, thymus and heart. IARC, Lyon Travis WD, Brambilla E, Muller-Hermelink HK, Harris CC (2004) World Health Organization classification of tumours. Pathology and genetics of tumours of the lung, pleura, thymus and heart. IARC, Lyon
69.
go back to reference Sasaki K, Desimone M, Rao HR, Huang GJ, Seethala RR (2010) Adrenocortical carcinosarcoma: a case report and review of the literature. Diagn Pathol 5:51PubMed Sasaki K, Desimone M, Rao HR, Huang GJ, Seethala RR (2010) Adrenocortical carcinosarcoma: a case report and review of the literature. Diagn Pathol 5:51PubMed
70.
go back to reference Coli A, Di Giorgio A, Castri F (2010) Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the adrenal gland: a case report and review of literature. Pathol Res Pract 206:59–65PubMedCrossRef Coli A, Di Giorgio A, Castri F (2010) Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the adrenal gland: a case report and review of literature. Pathol Res Pract 206:59–65PubMedCrossRef
71.
go back to reference Lee MS, Park IA, Chi JG et al (1997) Adrenal carcinosarcoma—a case report. J Korean Med Sci 12:374–377PubMed Lee MS, Park IA, Chi JG et al (1997) Adrenal carcinosarcoma—a case report. J Korean Med Sci 12:374–377PubMed
72.
go back to reference Barksdale SK, Marincola FM, Jaffe G (1993) Carcinosarcoma of the adrenal cortex presenting with mineralocorticoid excess. Am J Surg Pathol 17:941–945PubMedCrossRef Barksdale SK, Marincola FM, Jaffe G (1993) Carcinosarcoma of the adrenal cortex presenting with mineralocorticoid excess. Am J Surg Pathol 17:941–945PubMedCrossRef
73.
go back to reference Fischler DF, Nunez C, Levin HS et al (1992) Adrenal carcinosarcoma presenting in a woman with clinical signs of virilization. A case report with immunohistochemical and ultrastructural findings. Am J Surg Pathol 16:626–631PubMedCrossRef Fischler DF, Nunez C, Levin HS et al (1992) Adrenal carcinosarcoma presenting in a woman with clinical signs of virilization. A case report with immunohistochemical and ultrastructural findings. Am J Surg Pathol 16:626–631PubMedCrossRef
74.
go back to reference Decorato JW, Gruber H, Petti M, Levowitz BS (1990) Adrenal carcinosarcoma. J Surg Oncol 45:134–136PubMedCrossRef Decorato JW, Gruber H, Petti M, Levowitz BS (1990) Adrenal carcinosarcoma. J Surg Oncol 45:134–136PubMedCrossRef
75.
go back to reference Collina G, Maldarizzi F, Betts CM, Eusebi V (1989) Primary sarcomatoid carcinoma of the adrenal gland. First case report. Virchows Arch A Pathol Anat Histopathol 415:161–167PubMedCrossRef Collina G, Maldarizzi F, Betts CM, Eusebi V (1989) Primary sarcomatoid carcinoma of the adrenal gland. First case report. Virchows Arch A Pathol Anat Histopathol 415:161–167PubMedCrossRef
76.
go back to reference Okazumi S, Asano T, Ryu M et al (1987) Surgical resection of adrenal carcinoma extending into the vena cava, right atrium and ventricle: case report and review of the literature. Nippon Geka Gakkai Zasshi 88:231–238PubMed Okazumi S, Asano T, Ryu M et al (1987) Surgical resection of adrenal carcinoma extending into the vena cava, right atrium and ventricle: case report and review of the literature. Nippon Geka Gakkai Zasshi 88:231–238PubMed
77.
78.
go back to reference Molberg K, Vuitch F, Stewart D, Albores-Saavedra J (1992) Adrenocortical blastoma. Hum Pathol 23:1187–1190PubMedCrossRef Molberg K, Vuitch F, Stewart D, Albores-Saavedra J (1992) Adrenocortical blastoma. Hum Pathol 23:1187–1190PubMedCrossRef
79.
go back to reference Lack EE (2007) Tumors of the adrenal glands and extraadrenal paraganglia—volume 8 (Afip Atlas of Tumor Pathology Series 4). American Registry of Pathology, Washington Lack EE (2007) Tumors of the adrenal glands and extraadrenal paraganglia—volume 8 (Afip Atlas of Tumor Pathology Series 4). American Registry of Pathology, Washington
80.
go back to reference Liu J, Brown RE (2010) Immunohistochemical detection of epithelialmesenchymal transition associated with stemness phenotype in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Int J Clin Exp Pathol 3:755–762PubMed Liu J, Brown RE (2010) Immunohistochemical detection of epithelialmesenchymal transition associated with stemness phenotype in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Int J Clin Exp Pathol 3:755–762PubMed
81.
go back to reference Thiery JP, Acloque H, Huang RY, Nieto MA (2009) Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions in development and disease. Cell 139:871–890PubMedCrossRef Thiery JP, Acloque H, Huang RY, Nieto MA (2009) Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions in development and disease. Cell 139:871–890PubMedCrossRef
82.
go back to reference Guarino M, Tricomi P, Giordano F, Cristofori E (1996) Sarcomatoid carcinomas: pathological and histopathogenetic considerations. Pathology 28:298–305PubMedCrossRef Guarino M, Tricomi P, Giordano F, Cristofori E (1996) Sarcomatoid carcinomas: pathological and histopathogenetic considerations. Pathology 28:298–305PubMedCrossRef
83.
go back to reference Jin Z, Ogata S, Tamura G et al (2003) Carcinosarcomas (malignant mullerian mixed tumors) of the uterus and ovary: a genetic study with special reference to histogenesis. Int J Gynecol Pathol 22:368–373PubMedCrossRef Jin Z, Ogata S, Tamura G et al (2003) Carcinosarcomas (malignant mullerian mixed tumors) of the uterus and ovary: a genetic study with special reference to histogenesis. Int J Gynecol Pathol 22:368–373PubMedCrossRef
84.
go back to reference Dacic S, Finkelstein SD, Sasatomi E, Swalsky PA, Yousem SA (2002) Molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary carcinosarcoma as determined by microdissection-based allelotyping. Am J Surg Pathol 26:510–516PubMedCrossRef Dacic S, Finkelstein SD, Sasatomi E, Swalsky PA, Yousem SA (2002) Molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary carcinosarcoma as determined by microdissection-based allelotyping. Am J Surg Pathol 26:510–516PubMedCrossRef
85.
go back to reference Thompson L, Chang B, Barsky SH (1996) Monoclonal origins of malignant mixed tumors (carcinosarcomas). Evidence for a divergent histogenesis. Am J Surg Pathol 20:277–285PubMedCrossRef Thompson L, Chang B, Barsky SH (1996) Monoclonal origins of malignant mixed tumors (carcinosarcomas). Evidence for a divergent histogenesis. Am J Surg Pathol 20:277–285PubMedCrossRef
86.
go back to reference Roma AA, Malpica A, Deavers MT (2011) Malignant melanoma arising in an ovarian carcinosarcoma: case report and review of the literature. Int J Gynecol Pathol 30:158–162PubMedCrossRef Roma AA, Malpica A, Deavers MT (2011) Malignant melanoma arising in an ovarian carcinosarcoma: case report and review of the literature. Int J Gynecol Pathol 30:158–162PubMedCrossRef
87.
go back to reference Liu J, Wu H (2011) Carcinosarcoma of female urethra with melanocytic differentiation. Int J Clin Exp Pathol 4:206–209PubMed Liu J, Wu H (2011) Carcinosarcoma of female urethra with melanocytic differentiation. Int J Clin Exp Pathol 4:206–209PubMed
88.
go back to reference Amant F, Moerman P, Davel GH et al (2001) Uterine carcinosarcoma with melanocytic differentiation. Int J Gynecol Pathol 20:186–190PubMedCrossRef Amant F, Moerman P, Davel GH et al (2001) Uterine carcinosarcoma with melanocytic differentiation. Int J Gynecol Pathol 20:186–190PubMedCrossRef
89.
go back to reference Kajo K, Zubor P, Spacek J, Ryska A (2007) Carcinosarcoma of the uterus with melanocytic differentiation. Pathol Res Pract 203:753–758PubMedCrossRef Kajo K, Zubor P, Spacek J, Ryska A (2007) Carcinosarcoma of the uterus with melanocytic differentiation. Pathol Res Pract 203:753–758PubMedCrossRef
90.
go back to reference Zarineh A, Silverman JF (2011) Adrenal perivascular epithelioid cell tumor: a case report with discussion of differential diagnoses. Arch Pathol Lab Med 135:499–502PubMed Zarineh A, Silverman JF (2011) Adrenal perivascular epithelioid cell tumor: a case report with discussion of differential diagnoses. Arch Pathol Lab Med 135:499–502PubMed
91.
go back to reference Sakaguchi N, Sano K, Ito M et al (1996) A case of von Recklinghausen's disease with bilateral pheochromocytoma-malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors of the adrenal and gastrointestinal autonomic nerve tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 20:889–897PubMedCrossRef Sakaguchi N, Sano K, Ito M et al (1996) A case of von Recklinghausen's disease with bilateral pheochromocytoma-malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors of the adrenal and gastrointestinal autonomic nerve tumors. Am J Surg Pathol 20:889–897PubMedCrossRef
92.
go back to reference Gupta R, Sharma A, Arora R, Vijayaraghavan M (2009) Composite phaeochromocytoma with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour and rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation in a patient without von Recklinghausen disease. J Clin Pathol 62:659–661PubMedCrossRef Gupta R, Sharma A, Arora R, Vijayaraghavan M (2009) Composite phaeochromocytoma with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour and rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation in a patient without von Recklinghausen disease. J Clin Pathol 62:659–661PubMedCrossRef
Metadata
Title
Adrenocortical neoplasia: evolving concepts in tumorigenesis with an emphasis on adrenal cortical carcinoma variants
Authors
Ronald R. de Krijger
Thomas G. Papathomas
Publication date
01-01-2012
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Virchows Archiv / Issue 1/2012
Print ISSN: 0945-6317
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2307
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00428-011-1166-y

Other articles of this Issue 1/2012

Virchows Archiv 1/2012 Go to the issue