Pheochromocytoma

Published on 02/03/2015 by admin

Filed under Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Last modified 02/03/2015

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CHAPTER 28

Pheochromocytoma

1. What is a pheochromocytoma?

2. How common are pheochromocytomas?

3. Where are pheochromocytomas located?

4. Where are paragangliomas found?

5. Can pheochromocytomas metastasize?

6. What is the rule of 10s for pheochromocytomas?

7. What are the common clinical features of a pheochromocytoma?

The signs and symptoms of a pheochromocytoma are variable. The classic triad, consisting of sudden severe headaches, diaphoresis, and palpitations, carries a high degree of specificity (94%) and sensitivity (91%) for pheochromocytoma in a hypertensive population. The absence of all three symptoms reliably excludes the condition. Hypertension occurs in 90% to 95% of cases and is paroxysmal in 25% to 50% of these (Fig. 28-1). Orthostatic hypotension occurs in 40% of cases because of hypovolemia and impaired arterial and venous constriction responses. Tremor, pallor, and anxiety may also be accompanying signs, whereas flushing is uncommon.

8. What are some of the nonclassic manifestations of pheochromocytomas?

9. Discuss the cardiovascular manifestations of pheochromocytomas.

10. Describe the intracerebral symptoms related to pheochromocytoma.

11. What do pheochromocytomas elaborate?

12. Why is the blood pressure response among patients with pheochromocytomas so variable?