Pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytoma: what is it and how to detect it

Pheochromocytoma is a rare type of tumor that arises in the adrenal glands or neuroganglia. It is formed from chromaffin cells, which produce catecholamines - hormones that regulate blood pressure, heart rate and other important body functions.

Symptoms of pheochromocytoma can be varied and nonspecific, including high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, headaches, sweating, anxiety, and trembling. Some patients may also experience abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, the tumor may have no symptoms and can only be detected through regular medical examination.

Diagnosing pheochromocytoma can be difficult because its symptoms can resemble other diseases. However, if you have symptoms related to high blood pressure or heart problems, you may be ordered to test for catecholamines in your urine or blood. These tests can help your doctor determine the levels of hormones the tumor produces.

Treatment for pheochromocytoma involves surgical removal of the tumor. If the tumor cannot be removed surgically, other treatments may be prescribed, such as medications to lower blood pressure and control symptoms.

Overall, pheochromocytoma is a rare disease, but if you have symptoms related to high blood pressure or heart problems, you should see your doctor to get diagnosed and treated. Early detection and treatment of pheochromocytoma can help prevent serious complications and improve your health and quality of life.

Pheochromocytoma: a dangerous adrenal tumor

Pheochromocytoma is a benign or malignant tumor of chromaffin tissue of the adrenal glands or extra-adrenal localization. This tumor causes excess production of catecholamines such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, which can lead to serious health consequences.

With pheochromocytoma, symptoms can manifest themselves in the form of crises with a sharp increase in blood pressure (BP) in combination with neuropsychiatric, endocrine-metabolic, gastrointestinal and hematological symptoms. Attacks can last from several minutes to several hours and can be complicated by retinal hemorrhage, cerebrovascular accident, and pulmonary edema.

In addition, with pheochromocytoma, constantly high hypertension is observed, disturbances in the functional state of the kidneys, changes in the fundus of the eye, increased excitability, mood lability, fatigue and headache are possible. With a malignant form of the tumor - pheochromoblastoma - weight loss, abdominal pain and even the development of diabetes may occur.

To diagnose pheochromocytoma, ultrasound of the adrenal glands, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, radionuclide scintigraphy and other research methods are performed. Pharmacological blocking tests are also performed to determine the excretion of catecholamines and their metabolites. Treatment for pheochromocytoma involves surgical removal of the tumor, and alpha-blockers such as phentolamine are used to relieve crises.

It is important to note that pheochromocytoma is a rare disease, but it can lead to serious complications and even death. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor if suspicious symptoms appear, such as a sharp headache, increased blood pressure, palpitations, fear and trembling. Early detection and treatment of pheochromocytoma can save patients' lives.

Pheochromocytoma (Greek phaios - "purple" and chroma - "color") is a rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can lead to serious health problems. It is a malignant tumor, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body. Although pheochromotsotoma is not a fatal tumor, it can cause great anxiety for the patient and his loved ones, since this disease often manifests itself with severe pain, sleep disturbances, panic attacks, mental discomfort and other symptoms.

Pheochromozotoma arises from nerve bundle cells in the adrenal gland. Therefore, when the doctor makes this diagnosis, the patient needs to undergo a series of tests to determine whether the tumor is malignant. This is usually done with computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or positron emission tomography. Once patients have completed the necessary tests and received definitive diagnoses, they will discuss various treatment options with their physicians.

During the initial development of the tumor, drug therapy is usually carried out. In more complex cases, surgery is used. Another important one