Phaeochromocytoma Flashcards
1
Q
What is it?
A
rare catecholamine secreting tumour
2
Q
Where are they usually found?
A
within adrenal medulla
3
Q
What cells do they arise from?
A
sympathetic paraganglia cells which are collections of chromatin cells
4
Q
what is the 10% rule?
A
10% are malignant
10% are extra adrenal
10% are bilateral
10% are familial
5
Q
What are the features?
A
Typically episodic: HTN Headaches Palpitations Sweating Anxiety Classic triad - episodic headache, sweating, tachycardia
6
Q
What tests would u do?
A
- 24hr urinary collection of metanephrines
2. Abdo CT/MRI
7
Q
What is the treatment?
A
Surgery (definitive)
Must first be stabilised w medical management:
alpha blocker - phenoxybenzamine
then BB
8
Q
What are catecholamines?
A
Neurotransmitters:
- adrenaline
- norepinephrine
- dopamine
9
Q
What are chromaffin cells?
A
cells that secrete neurotransmitter
