Pheochromocytoma: A Brief Review

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor, can cause one of the most dramatic, life-threatening crises in the medical field of endocrinology. This catecholamine-producing tumor can occur from infancy to old age and may be associated with pregnancy. The tumor is difficult to diagnose and treat because of its location in the body and its association with a variety of symptoms, which often mislead and confuse physicians. Pheochromocytoma must be suspected in patients, especially young individuals, who experience resistant or episodic hypertension associated with sweating and headaches. Surgical treatment of pheochromocytoma is the treatment of choice. However, it is important to medically treat the patient prior to surgery to reverse the adverse effects (eg, hypertension, cardiovascular disease) associated with the excess circulating catecholamines. Pharmacists must be aware that pheochromocytoma is potentially curable if successfully treated. Thus, the urgency of diagnosis and treatment cannot be overemphasized.