Phaechryocytoma and other adrenal disorders

Question 1

What is phaeochromocytoma

Answer 1

Excess production of catecholamines from the adrenal medulla

Question 2

What are the symotoms in phaeochromocytoma

Answer 2

Hypertension
Paroxysmal attacks
Headaches
Sweating
Palpitations
Tremor
Pallor
Anxiety

Question 3

Why is phaeochromocytoma known as the 10% tumor

Answer 3

10% split of tumours
10% extra-adrenal
10% malignant
10% multiple
10% hyperglycaemia

Question 4

What does phaeochromacytoma have a strong connection with

Answer 4

Genes and inherited conditions - specifically MEN2 - multiple endocrine neoplasia, VHL , NFQ and PGL

Question 5

What is done to the adrenal medulla before surgery

Answer 5

Pharmacological suppression using doxasin

Question 6

What is given with doxasin to control the blood pressure before adrenal surgery

Answer 6

Beta blockers - end in olol e.g bisoprolol

Question 7

Why does a deficit in 21hydroxylase cause adrenal hyperplasia

Answer 7

It is required for cortisol and aldosterone production which control the negative feed back on ACTH and CRH
Production of sex steroids is not affected by 21-hydroxylase so it is produced in excess which results in adrenal hyperplasia