Pheochromocytoma is a rare, benign tumor that usually affects the adrenal gland. Usually this tumor affects one of the adrenal glands, but sometimes it can affect both.
Pheochromocytoma can release hormones that cause episodic or permanent increase in blood pressure. Pheochromocytoma that does not get treatment can be life threatening especially in the heart system and blood vessels.
Risk Factors for Pheochromocytoma
Someone with a history of rare hereditary diseases or tumors has the possibility to develop pheochromocytoma. The genetic conditions include:
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- Multiple endocrine neoplasia , type II (MEN II) is a tumor located in more than one part of the gland that produces hormones (endocrine glands). Tumors associated with MEN II can appear in the thyroid gland, parathyroid, lips, tongue, and digestive tract.
- Von Hippel-lindau disease, can cause tumors in several places, namely in the nervous system, endocrine system, pancreas, and kidney.
Causes of pheochromocytoma
Until now it is still unknown exactly what causes pheochromocytoma. Pheochromocytoma develops in chromaffin- type cells located in the middle of the adrenal gland. These cells release the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, which function to regulate the pulse, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
Symptoms of pheochromocytoma
Symptoms of pheochromocytoma that usually occur are:
- High blood pressure;
- Excessive sweating;
- Headache;
- Rapid pulse rate;
- Tremors or vibrating on the fingers;
- Pale face;
- Difficulty breathing.
Meanwhile, there are other symptoms of pheochromocytoma that rarely occur include:
- Anxious;
- Constipation;
- Weight loss.
Pheochromocytoma diagnosis
The doctor can carry out the following tests to establish a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, namely:
- Laboratory examination
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- 24-hour urine check. Urine for 24 hours accommodated in a special container for examination
- Blood test. Done to check the levels of adrenaline in the blood.
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- Imaging
Some imaging modalities can be done to see the tumor in the adrenal glands such as using:
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- CT scan
- MRI
- PET Scan
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- Genetic Examination
Genetic examination can be done to see hereditary abnormalities that can cause pheochromocytoma.
Complications of pheochromocytoma
High blood pressure causes damage to several organs of the human body, such as tissues in the heart system and blood vessels, brain and kidneys. High blood pressure conditions caused by pheochromocytoma can cause the following complications:
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- Heart disease;
- Stroke ;
- Kidney failure;
- Acute respiratory distress;
- Damage to the nervous system in the eye.
Feochromocytoma treatment
The main treatment aims to remove the tumor. Before performing surgery, the doctor will prescribe a number of drugs to lower blood pressure. Medications that can be given before surgery include:
- Alpha insulating group
- Beta sealing group
Surgery can also be done by removing the entire adrenal gland. One adrenal gland that is still functioning can carry out its function to produce the hormones needed by the body.
Prevention of pheochromocytoma
Specific precautions to avoid pheochromocytoma are absent. However, if you find the risk factors previously mentioned, you can immediately discuss with your doctor about the possibility to prevent pheochromocytoma disease. Another way to prevent pheochromocytoma by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight in ideal conditions.
