Phaeochromocytoma Flashcards
1
Q
What is a phaeochromocytoma?
A
Catecholamine secreting tumour of the adrenal medulla. It is called a paraganglioma if it arises in sympathetic tissue elsewhere
2
Q
What are the symptoms of a paraganglioma/phaochromocytoma?
A
Episodic hypertension,
Anxiety,
Weight loss,
Fatigue,
Palpitations
Sweating
Headaches
Flushing
Pyrexia
Dyspnoea
Abdominal pain
3
Q
What are the signs of a phaeochromocytoma
A
Episodic Hypertension
Postural hypotension
Tremor
Hypertensive retinopathy
4
Q
What are the investigations for a phaeochromocytoma?
A
Plasma metanephrines followed by 24 hour urinary metanephrines.
CR/MRI scan
Genetic testing
5
Q
What is the treatment of a phaeochromocytoma?
A
- Alpha blockade with phenoxybenzamine (to avoid hypertensive crisis in surgery)
- Beta blockers for symptoms
- Surgical ressection
6
Q
What conditions are associated with a phaeochromocytoma?
A
MEN 2,
Neurofibromatosis 1
VHL syndrome
