fullcortex.net

(1998)

Pheochromocytoma is an uncommon tumor that arises from tissue in the adrenal gland. The tumor produces adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline. When these hormones are released into the bloodstream in excessive amounts, they cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate and may lead to episodes of sweating and headache. The attacks may cause symptoms similar to those experienced with an extreme fright. However, in some cases of pheochromocytoma, such attacks do not occur and the primary manifestation is high blood pressure.

The tumors are usually not malignant (cancerous), but may be associated with malignant tumors that involve other endocrine glands such as the thyroid. Because adrenal tumors may release large amounts of adrenaline-like substances into the bloodstream following injury or during an operation, they can be life-threatening if unrecognized and untreated.

The problem is usually diagnosed by finding elevated levels of hormones in the blood or urine and performing scans to locate the tumor. Medications are available to block the action of the adrenal hormones, but they are used primarily prior to surgery. Surgical removal of the tumor is the usual treatment as it removes the source of this serious condition.