pheochromocytoma
Pronunciation: FEE-oh-chrome-oh-sy-TOH-mah
Catecholamine-secreting tumor arising from chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla.
Full Definition
Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor that develops from chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla and secretes excessive amounts of catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine). These tumors can cause severe hypertension, headaches, sweating, and palpitations due to catecholamine excess. Pheochromocytomas may occur sporadically or as part of hereditary syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) types 2A and 2B, von Hippel-Lindau disease, or neurofibromatosis type 1. Diagnosis involves measuring catecholamines and their metabolites in urine or plasma, followed by imaging studies and surgical resection when feasible.
Usage
Usage note: Often informally abbreviated as 'pheo' in clinical discussion; note complex spelling with 'ph' and 'ch'.
In Context
- "The patient's hypertensive crisis was attributed to an undiagnosed pheochromocytoma." — Emergency department report
- "Genetic testing revealed a RET mutation associated with hereditary pheochromocytoma." — Genetics consultation