Professional
Technical
IVT
pheochromocytoma
Pronunciation: fee-oh-kroh-moh-sy-TOH-mah
A neuroendocrine tumor of the adrenal medulla that secretes catecholamines.
Full Definition
A pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-secreting neuroendocrine tumor that arises from chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla. These tumors produce excess epinephrine and norepinephrine, leading to episodes of hypertension, palpitations, sweating, and headaches. Diagnosis involves measuring plasma or urinary catecholamines and metanephrines. While most pheochromocytomas are benign, they can be associated with hereditary syndromes including MEN2, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and neurofibromatosis type 1.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from paraganglioma, which occurs outside the adrenal glands.
In Context
- "CT imaging revealed a 4-cm right adrenal pheochromocytoma with elevated plasma metanephrines." — radiology report
- "Preoperative alpha-blockade is essential before pheochromocytoma resection." — surgical planning
Also known as
adrenal medullary tumor
chromaffin cell tumor
Don't confuse with
paraganglioma
adrenal adenoma
neuroblastoma