Loading...
Date of Award
Spring 2024
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Sophie Farley, MMS, PA-C
Abstract
Pheochromocytoma (pheo) is a rare tumor originating from the adrenal medulla which produces catecholamines. The most abundant catecholamine produced is norepinephrine, making up an estimated 85% of overall tumor production. Causes of this neoplasm can be sporadic, familial in nature, or associated with genetic disorders. Although the tumor itself is mostly benign, the potential cardiovascular complications due to the catecholamine excess are dangerous which the diagnosis imperative. Since the clinical presentation is immensely variable due to the variety of potential symptoms of sympathetic overactivity, prompt diagnosis is uncommon. In classical descriptions of presentation, the patient may have severe hypertension as well as the “triad” of headache, hyperhidrosis, and palpitations. Promoting knowledge about pheochromocytoma with this comprehensive diagnosis and management education is the key for advancing clinicians’ suspicions in a timely manner, especially before potential lethal complications.
Recommended Citation
Klar, Jessie, "Pheochromocytoma: Detecting the tumor of “fight-or-flight”" (2024). Capstone Showcase. 61.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2024/pa/61
Pheochromocytoma: Detecting the tumor of “fight-or-flight”
Pheochromocytoma (pheo) is a rare tumor originating from the adrenal medulla which produces catecholamines. The most abundant catecholamine produced is norepinephrine, making up an estimated 85% of overall tumor production. Causes of this neoplasm can be sporadic, familial in nature, or associated with genetic disorders. Although the tumor itself is mostly benign, the potential cardiovascular complications due to the catecholamine excess are dangerous which the diagnosis imperative. Since the clinical presentation is immensely variable due to the variety of potential symptoms of sympathetic overactivity, prompt diagnosis is uncommon. In classical descriptions of presentation, the patient may have severe hypertension as well as the “triad” of headache, hyperhidrosis, and palpitations. Promoting knowledge about pheochromocytoma with this comprehensive diagnosis and management education is the key for advancing clinicians’ suspicions in a timely manner, especially before potential lethal complications.