Pheochromocytoma is an adrenal gland tumor, which causes excess secretion of adrenaline. Most symptoms of pheochromocytoma are attributable to excess adrenaline production. Severe headaches are the most common symptom. Pheochromocytoma leads to hypertension but can also lead to hyperglycemia and diabetes-like symptoms. Other symptoms are: elevated heart rate, anxiety, weight loss.

Diagnosis is made through 24 hour urinary catecholamine and metanephrine test. Another option to diagnose adrenal tumor is clonidine administration. This drug administration normally suppresses adrenaline production. The lack of response to this drug is an evidence of pheochromocytoma.

All pheochromocytomas should be removed surgically. Such surgery should be performed only at centers experienced in the area with very qualified stuff. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a minimal invasive operation. A series of small (~ 1/4 to 3/4 inch) incisions are made and specialized instruments are used. Tumors less than 10 cm in diameter are good candidates for laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

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