Pheochromocytoma

Overview

Pheochromocytoma is a chromaffin cell tumor arising from the adrenal medulla, sympathetic ganglia, or other chromaffin tissue. The tumor continuously or intermittently releases large amounts of catecholamines, causing sustained or paroxysmal hypertension and multi-organ functional and metabolic disturbances.

Symptoms

• Paroxysmal hypertension
• Headache
• Palpitations
• Excessive sweating
• Pallor

Treatment

After diagnosis, alpha-blockers are used first for adequate volume expansion and preparation, then beta-blockers to control heart rate, followed by surgical removal of the tumor.

Dietary advice

Balanced diet with adequate salt and fluids for volume expansion, and avoidance of caffeine and tyramine-rich foods.