Phaechromocytoma Flashcards
What is pheochromocytoma?
A pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-secreting tumour originating in the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla
What is the management of phaechromocytoma?
Phenoxybenzamne, a non specific alpha adrenoreceptor blocker and is used during surgery
What are the features of phaechromocytoma?
Episodic hypertension
Anxiety
Weight loss
Palpitations
Sweating
What is the definite treatment for pheochromocytoma?
Surgical resection
-> requires alpha blockade prior with phenoxybenzamine
How is phaemochromocytoma diagnosed/
High serum metanephrines
High serum cortisol
What ocular manifestations occur?
Iris hamartomas (yellow pigment around iris)
Cafe-au-lait spots
What is phaechromocytoma associated with?
Neurofibromata’s is type 1: Genetic condition causing tumour development affecting brain and spinal cord
What is a differential for poorly controlled hypertension with hypokalemia?
Conn’s syndrome
What is gold standard for detecting phaemochromocytoma?
Urinary and plasma metanephrines
What is urinary free cortisol used to diagnose?
Cushing’s syndorme
