Pheochromocytoma Flashcards
what is pheochromocytoma?
a tumor, 90% in the adrenal medulla, 10% located outside of the adrenal medulla
causes of pheochromocytoma
hyper secretion of catecholamines (EPI/NOREPI) resulting in stimulation of sympathetic response
major risk with pheochromocytoma
Hypertensive emergencies can lead to:
-cardiac dysrhythmias
-dissecting aneurysm
-stroke
-acute kidney failure
what would a patient who has pheochromocytoma present with?
-hypertension
-headache
-hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
-hypermetabolism
-hyperglycemia
treatment
adrenalectomy (one or both)
goals of treatment before & during surgery
control hypertension & volume expansion
pre surgery management
treat:
-hypertension
-monitor cardiac function
-treat headaches
-get them on steroids