Urology
Urological Conditions
Adrenal Pheochromocytoma
What Is Adrenal Pheochromocytoma?
There are two adrenal glands in your body, one on top of each
kidney. Each consists of two parts: an outer layer, the cortex,
and an inner area, the medulla. Both parts produce important
hormones the body needs. The cortex produces hormones that
control blood pressure, salt and potassium levels and the body’s
use of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The cortex also makes
male sex hormones. The medulla produces adrenaline and other
hormones that affect blood pressure, heart rate and sweating.
Pheochromocytoma is a very rare form of cancer that develops in the adrenal medulla of adults usually in their 30s and 40s.
Risk Factors
There are no known risk factors nor preventative measures for pheochromocytoma.
Symptoms
The major symptoms of pheochromocytoma are sudden or sustained high blood pressure that often resists treatment, as well as sweating, rapid pulse or heart palpitations, nausea and severe headaches.
Diagnosing Adrenal Pheochromocytoma
Diagnostic tests for pheochromocytoma include blood and urine tests to look for increased hormone levels, and imaging tests such as an [MRI] or [CT Scan]. A [biopsy] may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Before treating pheochromocytoma by surgically removing the adrenal gland (adrenalectomy), the high blood pressure associated with the disease must be controlled with medications. When the blood pressure is brought down, an adrenalectomy can be performed through traditional methods or using laparoscopic technique. It involves using very small incisions through which the surgeon inserts tiny cameras and instruments to do the surgery. This results in faster, easier recovery and smaller scars. Strong Health urologists prefer laparoscopic surgery when possible and are among the nation’s leaders in the field.
Additional Resources
For more information about pheochromocytoma, see the following websites: