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Pheochromocytoma
Urgent
Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that develops from specialized cells of the adrenal glands and can cause excessive release of epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones affect heart rate, metabolism and blood pressure. The tumor usually develops in the adrenal gland but can occasionally occur outside it. Episodes may cause severe or recurring headaches, sweating, rapid or pounding heartbeat and high blood pressure. Most pheochromocytomas are not cancerous, although a small number can be malignant.
Body System
Neck & Thyroid
When to Seek Medical Attention
Pheochromocytoma requires specialist medical assessment because excess catecholamine release can cause severe blood-pressure and cardiovascular complications. Seek prompt care for recurrent severe headaches, sweating, palpitations, or marked blood-pressure elevation. Emergency assessment is needed for severe chest pain, severe headache with neurological symptoms, very high blood pressure with symptoms, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or other signs of a cardiovascular emergency.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that develops from specialized cells of the adrenal glands and can cause excessive release of epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones affect heart rate, metabolism and blood pressure. The tumor usually develops in the adrenal gland but can occasionally occur outside it. Episodes may cause severe or recurring headaches, sweating, rapid or pounding heartbeat and high blood pressure. Most pheochromocytomas are not cancerous, although a small number can be malignant.
Symptoms 3
Abdominal Pain
Cold Intolerance
Headache
Causes 2
Pheochromocytoma develops from abnormal growth of cells in adrenal gland tissue that produce catecholamine hormones. A tumor may occur in one adrenal gland, both glands or, less commonly, in tissue outside the adrenal glands. Most cases occur without a clearly identified cause. Some pheochromocytomas occur as part of inherited conditions and may run in families. Hereditary forms can be associated with syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 and other genetic disorders.
Genetics
Hormonal Imbalance
Risk Factors
Risk factors include having a family history of pheochromocytoma or an inherited syndrome associated with adrenal or endocrine tumors. People with certain hereditary conditions may have a higher likelihood of developing one or more tumors. Pheochromocytoma can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed during early to middle adulthood. Close relatives of people with hereditary disease may also need evaluation because some cases are inherited.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination, particularly when episodes of headache, sweating, palpitations or high blood pressure suggest excess catecholamine production. Blood or urine testing can measure catecholamines and related substances such as metanephrines. Imaging studies may then be used to locate the tumor, including CT or MRI of the abdomen and, in selected cases, specialized nuclear imaging such as an MIBG scan. Genetic evaluation may be considered when the history suggests an inherited condition.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no established way to prevent most pheochromocytomas because many develop without a preventable cause
When a hereditary syndrome is present, genetic counseling and appropriate screening of affected families can help identify tumors earlier
Close relatives of people with inherited pheochromocytoma may benefit from evaluation and periodic testing
People who have previously been treated successfully should continue follow-up testing because the tumor can sometimes return
Prevention Guidance
There is no established way to prevent most pheochromocytomas because many develop without a preventable cause. When a hereditary syndrome is present, genetic counseling and appropriate screening of affected families can help identify tumors earlier. Close relatives of people with inherited pheochromocytoma may benefit from evaluation and periodic testing. People who have previously been treated successfully should continue follow-up testing because the tumor can sometimes return.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh Vegetables
Support cardiovascular health.
Whole Grains
Provide steady energy.
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants.
Foods to Avoid
Excess Caffeine
May trigger symptoms.
Alcohol
May worsen blood pressure fluctuations.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A rare adrenal gland tumor that produces excess hormones.
High blood pressure, headache and sweating are common.
Genetic factors and adrenal tumors are common causes.
Hormone testing and imaging studies help diagnosis.
Yes, surgical removal is often the primary treatment.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.