Pheochromocytoma

What Is Pheochromocytoma? Understanding This Rare Adrenal Tumor

Pheochromocytoma is a rare but potentially serious tumor that forms in the adrenal glands—small glands located above your kidneys. While these tumors are usually benign (non-cancerous), they can cause major problems by producing excessive hormones that affect your heart rate, blood pressure, and more.

At Thyroid Doctor Miami, we specialize in diagnosing and managing endocrine tumors like pheochromocytoma with precision and personalized care.

What Is a Pheochromocytoma?

A pheochromocytoma arises from chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla—the inner part of the adrenal gland. These tumors produce high amounts of catecholamines (stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline) that can lead to dangerous spikes in blood pressure.

While rare, pheochromocytomas can be life-threatening if left untreated due to their impact on the cardiovascular system.

Signs and Symptoms

Because pheochromocytomas cause unpredictable surges in hormone levels, symptoms can come and go suddenly. Some people have no noticeable symptoms until a crisis occurs.

Common signs include:

Severe headaches
Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
High blood pressure (often resistant to treatment)
Excessive sweating
Panic attack-like symptoms
Tremors or shaking
Pale skin or flushing
Shortness of breath
Unexplained weight loss
Chest pain or anxiety

Episodes may be triggered by physical stress, surgery, certain medications, or even changes in position.

How Is Pheochromocytoma Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a pheochromocytoma requires a careful combination of lab tests and imaging studies. At Thyroid Doctor Miami, we take a systematic and accurate approach.

1. Hormone Testing

These tests check for elevated levels of catecholamines and their metabolites:

Plasma free metanephrines (blood test)
24-hour urine collection for metanephrines and catecholamines

These are sensitive tests that help confirm excess hormone production.

2. Imaging Scans

Once biochemical evidence is found, imaging is used to locate the tumor:

CT scan or MRI of the abdomen

Sometimes MIBG scan or PET scan to find tumors that may have spread

Is It Genetic?

Up to 30–40% of pheochromocytomas are linked to inherited genetic conditions. You may be at higher risk if you have a family history of:

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)
Von Hippel-Lindau disease
Neurofibromatosis type 1
SDHx gene mutations

We may recommend genetic testing if you’re diagnosed—especially if you’re under age 40 or have a family history of endocrine tumors.

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for pheochromocytoma is surgical removal of the tumor. However, pre-surgical preparation is essential to prevent dangerous hormone surges during surgery.

1. Pre-Operative Medication

Before surgery, you’ll take medications to control blood pressure and heart rate:

Alpha-blockers (e.g., phenoxybenzamine)
Beta-blockers (added only after alpha-blockade)

This reduces the risk of a hypertensive crisis during surgery.

2. Adrenalectomy

The tumor is removed through minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, if possible. In some cases, open surgery may be needed, especially if the tumor is large or has spread.

What Happens After Surgery?

After surgery, most people see a rapid improvement in blood pressure and symptoms. However, ongoing monitoring is crucial:

Hormone levels are re-checked post-op
Imaging may be repeated if symptoms persist
Lifelong follow-up is recommended, especially for patients with a genetic predisposition

In rare cases, pheochromocytoma may recur or spread (malignant pheochromocytoma), requiring further treatment such as radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies.

Key Differences Between Pheochromocytoma and Other Adrenal Conditions

Condition	Main Hormone Affected	Primary Symptoms
Pheochromocytoma	Catecholamines	Severe hypertension, headaches, palpitations
Cushing’s Syndrome	Cortisol	Weight gain, moon face, stretch marks
Primary Aldosteronism	Aldosterone	Hypertension, low potassium

Each condition requires unique testing and treatment.

When to See a Specialist

You should see an endocrinologist if you experience:

Sudden or episodic high blood pressure
Severe headaches with palpitations or sweating
Symptoms triggered by physical stress
Family history of endocrine tumors

Pheochromocytoma can be managed successfully, but early diagnosis is key.

You’re in Expert Hands at Thyroid Doctor Miami

Pheochromocytoma may be rare, but it’s very real—and very treatable. At Thyroid Doctor Miami, our endocrine team provides expert evaluation, personalized hormone testing, and safe, effective treatment to get you back to living a healthy life.

Worried about your symptoms? Don’t wait.
📞 Call us or schedule an appointment online to get the answers and care you deserve.

Specialized care for rare conditions. Trusted by patients across Miami and beyond.
That’s the Thyroid Doctor Miami difference.