Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-secreting tumor of chromaffin cells typically located in the adrenal glands. It causes persistent or paroxysmal hypertension. Diagnosis is confirmed by measuring catecholamine products in blood or urine. Imaging tests, especially CT or MRI, help localize tumors. Treatment involves removal of the tumor when possible. Drug therapy for control of blood pressure includes alpha-blockade, usually combined with beta-blockade.

See Pheochromocytoma in The Manuals for more details.

References:

Jameson JL, De Groot LJ (eds): Endocrinology: Adult and Pediatric (pt 8), chapter 110. Philadelphia, Saunders/Elsevier, 2015, pp. 1902–1931.

Wass JAH, Stewart PM (eds): Oxford Textbook of Endocrinology and Diabetes, section 5.5. Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2011.

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