Etymed
pheochromocytoma
Definition
A tumor derived from chromaffin cells, typically found in the adrenal medulla, that produces excessive amounts of catecholamines
Clinical context
A 35-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with severe headaches, palpitations, and diaphoresis. Her blood pressure is 180/120 mmHg, and she reports sudden onset of these symptoms over the past few hours. She has no significant past medical history. Physical examination reveals tachycardia and a bounding pulse. A CT scan of the abdomen shows a 3 cm mass in the right adrenal gland. Laboratory studies show elevated plasma metanephrines. She is diagnosed with pheochromocytoma and requires careful surgical management.
Mnemonic
Pheo - Painful, Pulsatile, Paroxysmal - Pain, Palpitations, Sweating