Pheochromocytoma
Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that usually grows in the adrenal glands, just above the kidneys. This condition is also known as adrenal paraganglioma or chromaffin cell tumor. Although it can happen to anyone, pheochromocytoma is most common in adults aged 30 to 50 years.
The adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones that control things like metabolism and blood pressure. When you have pheochromocytoma, these glands release hormones at much higher levels than normal.
These extra hormones cause high blood pressure, which can damage the heart, brain, lungs, and kidneys. In most cases, these tumors are benign, although they can also become malignant and become cancerous.
Pheochromocytoma Symptoms
The symptoms of pheochromocytoma that usually occur are:
- High blood pressure.
- Excessive sweating.
- Headache.
- Rapid pulse.
- Tremors or shaking in the fingers.
- Pale face.
- Difficulty breathing.
Apart from that, there are other symptoms of pheochromocytoma that rarely occur, including:
- Worried.
- Constipation.
- Weight loss.
Causes of Pheochromocytoma
Until now it is still not known for sure what causes pheochromocytoma. Pheochromocytoma develops in chromaffin cells located in the middle of the adrenal glands.
These cells release the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, which function to regulate pulse rate, blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Risk Factors for Pheochromocytoma
People with a family history of rare diseases or tumors are at higher risk of developing pheochromocytoma. These genetic conditions include:
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia, type II (MEN II). These are tumors that are located in more than one part of the glands that produce hormones (endocrine glands). Tumors associated with MEN II can occur in the thyroid, 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 kidneys.
Complications of Pheochromocytoma
High blood pressure caused by pheochromocytoma can cause damage to several organs of the body, including tissues in the heart and blood vessel system, brain and kidneys.
High blood pressure conditions caused by pheochromocytoma can cause the following complications:
- Heart disease.
- Stroke.
- Kidney failure.
- Acute respiratory distress.
- Damage to the nervous system of the eye.
Pheochromocytoma Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pheochromocytoma can be done with a series of examinations such as:
- Laboratory examination.
- 24-hour urine test. Urine for 24 hours is collected in a special container for examination.
- Blood test. Done to check the level of adrenaline hormone in the blood.
- Imaging, such as CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans.
In addition, doctors will usually also perform a genetic examination. This is to check for hereditary disorders that can cause pheochromocytoma.
Pheochromocytoma Treatment
Pheochromocytoma treatment usually aims to remove the tumor, most often with surgery. However, before performing surgery, the doctor will prescribe a number of medications to lower blood pressure.
Surgery can also be done by removing the entire adrenal gland. One of the adrenal glands that is still functioning can carry out its function to produce hormones needed by the body.
Pheochromocytoma Prevention
Since the cause is not clear, it is safe to say that there is no way to prevent pheochromocytoma. However, if you find the risk factors mentioned above, you can immediately discuss with your doctor about the possibility of preventing pheochromocytoma.
In addition, another way to prevent pheochromocytoma is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping your weight in ideal condition.
When to See a Doctor?
Immediately see a doctor if you find several factors such as difficulty lowering blood pressure with various types of drugs, a history of pheochromocytoma in the family, a family history of tumors in the endocrine glands such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type II (MEN II).
