Dibenzamine Test

Dibenzamine test: a method for diagnosing pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytoma is a rare type of tumor that produces excess amounts of catecholamines. Catecholamines are a group of hormones that are produced in the adrenal glands; their excess levels can lead to serious health consequences such as hypertension, heart rhythm disturbances, headaches, vision loss and even myocardial infarction.

To diagnose pheochromocytoma, a dibenzamine test is used. This method is based on the ability of dibenzamine to stop an attack of arterial hypertension caused by excessive release of catecholamines by the tumor. Dibenzamine is a drug that dilates blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. During the dibenzamine test, the patient is given dibenzamine and then the blood pressure level is measured. If the pressure level decreases, this indicates the presence of excessive secretion of catecholamines by the tumor.

The dibenzamine test is one of the most accurate methods for diagnosing pheochromocytoma. However, it may give false positive results in the presence of other diseases, such as Cushing's disease or hyperthyroidism.

Other methods may be used to more accurately diagnose pheochromocytoma, such as measuring catecholamine levels in the blood and urine, and performing a CT scan or magnetic resonance imaging scan.

In conclusion, the dibenzamine test is one of the important methods for diagnosing pheochromocytoma, which helps determine the presence of excessive secretion of catecholamines by the tumor. However, for an accurate diagnosis it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient, including various research methods.

The dibenzamine test is a method for diagnosing pheochromocytoma (an adrenal tumor that secretes catecholamines), based on the ability of dibenzamine (DBZ) to stop an attack of arterial hypertension. DBZ is a selective blocker of alpha-2 receptors, which are found on the surface of catecholamine-producing cells.

In pheochromocytoma, catecholamines released by the tumor cause excessive stimulation of alpha-2 receptors, leading to increased blood pressure. As a result, DBZ, which binds to alpha-2 receptors, blocks them and prevents the increase in blood pressure caused by catecholamines.

To carry out the dibenzamine test, intravenous administration of dibenzamine at a dose of 50 mg is used. 15 minutes after administration of the drug, the patient's blood pressure and pulse are measured. Then, blood pressure and pulse measurements are taken every 10 minutes for 4 hours. With pheochromocytoma, blood pressure returns to normal values ​​within a few minutes after administration of dibenzamine.

The dibenzamine test is a highly sensitive and specific method for diagnosing pheochromocytoma. It allows you to identify a tumor even before the appearance of clinical symptoms and begin treatment at an early stage of the disease.