Pheochromocytomas/Paragangliomas and two cases
Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine-producing neuroendocrine tumours that arise from the adrenal medulla or extramedullary pheochromoblasts with highly variable clinical presentation, including episodes of headache, sweating, palpitations and hypertension. Due to the non-specificity of the symptoms...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
AOSIS
2007-06-01
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| Series: | South African Family Practice |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://safpj.co.za/index.php/safpj/article/view/849 |
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| Summary: | Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine-producing neuroendocrine tumours that arise from the adrenal medulla or extramedullary pheochromoblasts with highly variable clinical presentation, including episodes of headache, sweating, palpitations and hypertension. Due to the non-specificity of the symptoms there is usually a delay between the onset of symptoms and the final diagnosis. To make a firm diagnosis, biochemical testing of the blood (catecholamines) or urine (metanephrines and VMA) are mandatory. Many stimuli increase circulating catecholamines and metabolites and must receive due attention to prevent false-positive results. Therapeutically, surgery is the gold standard. To minimise complications during and post surgery the lesion(s) should be carefully localised via imaging studies. Adequate pre- and postoperative medical treatment is important. The history, diagnosis and therapy of two patients—the one with a paraganglioma of the organ of Zuckerkandl, the other with a intra thoracic paraganglioma are presented. |
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| ISSN: | 2078-6190 2078-6204 |