Endocrine cancer

Hormones help to regulate your body’s growth and function via your bloodstream. The major glands included in your endocrine system are:

The Hypothalamus and Pituitary gland (in the brain)
The Thyroid and Parathyroid glands
The Adrenals (on the top of the kidneys)
The Thymus
The Pancreas
The Ovaries and The Testicles (the reproductive organs)

Abnormal growths (tumours) in any of these glands may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Your treatment will depend on the gland that is involved and the type of tumour.

Related tests and scans

Bone density scanning (DXA)

A DXA scan can help to diagnose osteoporosis or identify if you are at risk of developing it in the future. It can also be used to detect other bone disorders and conditions, such as osteopenia, brittle bone disease, and osteomalacia.

CT scan (or CAT scan)

A CT scan is used to produce internal cross-sectional images of the body. The images aid the detection of disease and injury, allowing effective treatment planning.

Diagnostic endoscopy

A diagnostic endoscopy is an examination to look at your internal organs using an instrument called an endoscope.

Fine needle biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure to remove and examine a sample of tissue from a lump or suspicious area of the body.

Gynaecological biopsies

A small sample of cells may be taken from the lining of your womb, cervix or vagina by a gynaecologist or specialist nurse.

Image guided aspiration and biopsy

Itching (Pruritus) Assessment

Itching (pruritus) is an unpleasant sensation causing you to respond by scratching.

MRI scan

An MRI is a type of scan that creates detailed images of the inside of your body. Your doctor or healthcare professional has recommended an MRI scan because it is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

Ovarian screening

The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system and sit either side of the womb.

Related treatments and procedures

Adnexal surgery

Adnexal surgery is performed on the organs near your uterus such as your ovaries, fallopian tubes or on ovarian cysts.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of chemicals or drugs (cytotoxic agents) in the treatment of cancer.

Endocrine

Your endocrine system is made up of all the glands in your body that produce hormones. If your hormone levels become unbalanced your endocrine system signals one or more of these glands to correct the level.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy

If conservative methods to treat adrenal gland problems do not work for you, your consultant may recommend surgery.

Ovarian cystectomy

An ovarian cystectomy can be carried out through two different types of surgery.

Palliative care

Palliative care is a medical and nursing speciality that focus on controlling symptoms and providing support for patients, and their families with any serious illness.

Parathyroidectomy

A parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or more diseased parathyroid gland(s).

Pituitary surgery

Problems with the pituitary gland are rare but they may include benign (non-cancerous) growths or tumours.