Endocrinology and Endocrine System

Pheochromocytoma

A hormone-secreting tumour that occurs in the adrenal glands which results in the release of too much of epinephrine and norepinephrine, hormones that control heart rate, metabolism, and blood pressure. Pheochromocytoma may occur as a single tumor or as more than one growth. It usually develops in the medulla of one or both adrenal glands. In rare cases, a pheochromocytoma occurs outside the adrenal gland. Very few pheochromocytomas are cancerous. These tumors may occur at any age, but they are most common from early to mid-adulthood. Genetics and environmentals factors are also one of the cause for this pheochromocytoma. Signs and symptoms of a pheochromocytoma are those of sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity with three signs: diaphoresis (excessive sweating), headaches and elevated heart rate. The massive release of catecholamines in pheochromocytoma can cause damage to heart cells. The diagnosis can be established by measuring catecholamines and metanephrines in plasma (blood) or through a 24-hour urine collection. Surgical procedure of the tumor is the first choice in treatment by the procedures Laparotomy or Laparoscopy.

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