Adrenal Tumors / Pheochromocytoma
There are two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney toward the back. Tumors of the adrenal glands are rare. However, when present, they can cause many problems by excess secretion of certain adrenal-produced hormones. One type of tumor of the adrenal glands is called a pheochromocytoma.
A pheochromocytoma is an adrenal gland tumor that secretes epinephrine and norepinephrine hormones. These hormones are responsible for regulating heart rate and blood pressure, among other functions. Pheochromocytomas occur most frequently in young to middle-aged adults between the ages of 30 and 60, and occur in the central part of the adrenal gland, called the adrenal medulla.
The most common symptom of pheochromocytoma is high blood pressure, which is sometimes extreme. Other symptoms are less common, but can also be brought on by emotional stress, changes in posture, or taking certain medications. The following are the most common symptoms of pheochromocytoma. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Other symptoms may include:
- Rapid pulse
- Palpitations
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Clammy skin
The symptoms of pheochromocytoma may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for pheochromocytoma may include:
- Blood and urine tests. These tests measure hormone levels.
- Computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan). A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce horizontal, or axial, images (often called slices) of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
- Radioisotope scan. This procedure introduces radioactive substances into the body to create a functional image of the tumor.
Specific treatment for pheochromocytoma will be determined by your doctor based on:
- Your age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent of the disease
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the disease
- Your opinion or preference
Treatment may include one or more of the following:
- Surgery. A procedure to remove the tumor. The surgeon may remove one or both adrenal glands. Surgery may be performed either through an open incision or through several small incisions using a laparoscope (a small thin tube with a video camera attached).
- External radiation (external beam therapy). A treatment that precisely sends high levels of radiation directly to the cancer cells. The machine is controlled by the radiation therapist. Since radiation is used to kill cancer cells and to shrink tumors, special shields may be used to protect the tissue surrounding the treatment area. Radiation treatments are painless and usually last a few minutes.
- Cryotherapy. A treatment that uses very cold temperatures to destroy the tumor.
- Chemotherapy. This is the use of anticancer drugs to treat cancerous cells. In most cases, chemotherapy works by interfering with the cancer cell’s ability to grow or reproduce. Different groups of drugs work in different ways to fight cancer cells. The oncologist will recommend a treatment plan for each individual.
Click here to view the
Online Resources of Endocrinology