Pheochromocytoma is a lethal tumor of chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla that
produces episodes of hypertension with the symptoms of palpitations, severe headaches,
and sweating [
]. Although these symptoms are associated with the disease, at times pheochromocytoma
can present with symptoms that mimic other clinical conditions. Pheochromocytomas
are rare causes of hypertension, but they are dangerous tumors and thus require investigation
in large numbers of patients. Pheochromocytomas have been estimated to be present
in approximately 0.3% of patients undergoing evaluation for secondary causes of hypertension.
The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma is a challenging one; autopsy series suggest that
many pheochromocytomas are not clinically suspected, and the undiagnosed tumor can
be associated with morbid consequences [
[2]
]. Numerous cases have been reported, illustrating the fact that the diagnosis can
be easily missed. The management of pheochromocytoma is now more promising than ever
because of advancements in localization techniques and the availability of various
effective treatment modalities [
]. Clinically patients with pheochromocytoma now can be operated on safely, but prolonged
follow-up is essential, especially in those with hereditary forms of pheochromocytoma
[
[4]
].To read this article in full you will need to make a payment
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© 2004 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
