The symptoms of pheochromocytoma overlap with a variety of conditions but tend to stand out due to their severity. These symptoms may be intermittent or constant, or they may occur only in bursts. In some cases, a patient may experience no symptoms, while others may develop a severe case of high blood pressure, a condition called episodic hypertension. Although high blood pressure is not a definite symptom of pheochromocytoma, it should raise suspicion in the diagnosis.
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Another common symptom is a racing heart, also known as tachycardia. It is similar to a rapid heartbeat caused by the release of adrenaline from the tumor. Other common symptoms are abdominal pain, flushing, and high blood pressure. In some cases, the symptoms can last an hour or more. While not all paroxysms are typical, many individuals experience several during the course of their disease.
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Although chemotherapy does not cure pheochromocytoma, it can be effective for controlling the symptoms and halting the growth of the tumor. Newer types of chemotherapy drugs have the ability to target tumor tissue. Beta-blockers and doxazosin block the effects of excess catecholamines and can prevent or delay the onset of some of the symptoms. If all else fails, the patient should call the doctor immediately.
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Most cases of pheochromocytomas are caused by genetic changes or disruptions. Genetic disorders with this mutation are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. One copy of an altered gene is transmitted from either parent or a new mutation is needed for the onset of the condition. The risk of passing this gene to a child is about 50% for each pregnancy. There are also some rare cases of pheochromocytoma in pregnant women.
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Patients with pheochromocytoma may experience episodes of chest pain. These episodes may occur every day or come and go. The duration and frequency of these episodes may increase over time. The symptoms may be related to certain proteins and hormones. In some instances, pheochromocytoma may cause an abnormally high blood pressure. These changes are sometimes called hemorrhagic infarction.
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The presence of excess catecholamines is another indication of pheochromocytoma. Catecholamines are short-lived hormones that are broken down by the body into other substances called metanephrines. Metanephrines last for longer and can be measured in blood, urine, and plasma. If the levels are twice the upper limit of normal, the tumor is likely pheochromocytoma.
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While pheochromocytoma is rare, it can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Although most patients live at least five more years after diagnosis, they should consult a medical professional for advice about their treatment options. Most patients will live for several more years with the condition without surgery. If it is caught early, removing the tumor may be enough to cure the cancer. However, doctors may recommend lifelong follow-up for those who experience symptoms.
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Although most pheochromocytomas are benign, some may spread to distant sites or organs. The most common symptom is elevated blood pressure, which can occur when the tumor has grown large. The symptoms of pheochromocytoma will progress as the tumor grows larger. Most pheochromocytomas originate in the adrenal gland and are episodic. However, 10% of these tumors are hereditary.
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If you experience any of the above symptoms, you may have a pheochromocytoma. The adrenal gland produces excessive catecholamines, which triggers many symptoms, including high blood pressure, sweating, anxiety, and palpitations. Pheochromocytoma can occur in a single tumor, or multiple growths can form and spread to other areas of the body. The symptoms of pheochromocytoma can appear at any age, but are most common in early to mid-adulthood.
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During the treatment process, your doctor will focus on relieving the symptoms of pheochromocytoma. Sometimes, this treatment is referred to as supportive care or palliative care. This type of care is often given to patients as soon as they are diagnosed. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately. They can help you determine what is wrong with you and how to treat it.
