Pheochromocytoma

A pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the interior portion, or medulla, of the adrenal glands that can release high levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. A pheochromocytoma can also be located elsewhere in the body in similar specialized tissue. In this case, they are referred to as extra-adrenal pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas. Most pheochromocytomas are benign, but about 10% are malignant.

The substances secreted by the tumor cause a number of specific symptoms and signs related to excess epinephrine and norepinephrine. Headache, sweating, and fast heart rate are the characteristic symptoms. Other associated symptoms and signs can include

• flushing,
• high blood pressure,
• dizziness,
• fatigue,
• palpitations,
• anxiety,
• nausea,
• shortness of breath,
• tremor, and
• weight loss.

Cause of pheochromocytoma

Doctors do not understand the cause of a pheochromocytoma.

Other pheochromocytoma symptoms and signs

• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Fast Heart Rate
• Fatigue
• Flushing
• Headache
• High Blood Pressure
• Nausea
• Palpitations
• Shortness of Breath
• Sweating
• Tremor
• Weight Loss