COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCE INFORMATION

ANAPLASTIC ADRENAL CANCER - ADULT

DESCRIPTION

Anaplastic Adrenal Cancer is a sub-type of adrenal cancer which shows virtually no cellular differentiation. It is not associated with overproduction of hormones as is seen in other types of adrenal carcinomas. Abdominal pain is a presenting symptom.

ALTERNATE NAMES

Adrenal Carcinoma, Anaplastic Adrenal Cancer

DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND CODING

CT and MRI imaging are used in the diagnosis of adrenal lesions, but a biopsy is required for definite diagnosis.

TREATMENT

Radical surgical excision is the treatment for individuals with localized malignancies and remains the only method by which long-term disease-free survival may be achieved.

PROGRESSION

Median survival for anaplastic adrenal cancer is 5 months as compared with a median survival of 40 months for differentiated adrenal cancers.

SUGGESTED PROGRAMMATIC ASSESSMENT*

Suggested MER for Evaluation: Imaging studies of CT scan/MRI will suggest a diagnosis which must be confirmed by biopsy.

Suggested Listings for Evaluation:

DETERMINATION

LISTING

REMARKS

Meets Listing

13.21

Anaplastic carcinoma of the adrenal gland is evaluated under 13.21 A if inoperable, unresectable, or recurrent. Anaplastic cancer of the adrenal glands with metastases is evaluated under 13.21 B.

Medical Equals

* Adjudicators may, at their discretion, use the Medical Evidence of Record or Listings suggested to evaluate the claim. However, the decision to allow or deny the claim rests with the adjudicator.

Last Updated: 9/10/08

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