How do you diagnose a pheochromocytoma?
Blood and urine analysis can confirm a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma by detecting elevated levels of catecholamines or its metabolites in the urine and blood (plasma). Metabolites are the byproducts of catecholamines that are produced when the body breaks down (metabolizes) catecholamines.
What foods should be avoided with pheochromocytoma?
Foods high in tyramine, a substance that affects blood pressure, also can make symptoms worse. Tyramine is common in foods that are fermented, aged, pickled, cured, overripe or spoiled….These foods include:
- Some cheeses.
- Some beers and wines.
- Chocolate.
- Dried or smoked meats.
How long can you live with pheochromocytoma?
Patients with a small pheochromocytoma that has not spread to other parts of the body have a five-year survival rate of about 95%. Patients with pheochromocytoma that has grown back (recurred) or spread to other parts of the body have a five-year survival rate between 34% and 60%.
What foods should be avoided by a patient diagnosed with pheochromocytoma?
Where does a pheochromocytoma grow in the body?
A pheochromocytoma (PCC) is a rare tumor that usually grows in your adrenal glands, above your kidneys. It’s also known as an adrenal paraganglioma or a chromaffin cell tumor. It’s most common in adults ages 30 to 50, but people of all ages can have it.
What kind of treatment is used for pheochromocytoma?
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy: Radiation and chemotherapy treatments are used when pheochromocytoma has spread to other parts of the body. Does pheochromocytoma run in families? In some cases, pheochromocytoma can run in families. About 25-35% of cases of pheochromocytoma may be inherited.
What are the symptoms of pheochromocytoma in the kidney?
You have two adrenal glands —one located at the top of each kidney. Usually, a pheochromocytoma develops in only one adrenal gland. But tumors can develop in both. If you have a pheochromocytoma, the tumor releases hormones that may cause high blood pressure, headache, sweating and symptoms of a panic attack.
Can a pheochromocytoma cause high blood pressure?
Although they are usually benign, pheochromocytomas often cause the adrenal gland to make too many hormones. This can lead to high blood pressure and cause symptoms such as. Headaches. Sweating. Pounding of the heart. Being shaky. Being extremely pale.
