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Pheochromocytoma

 

 
 

Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that usually starts in the cells of one of your adrenal glands. 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
  • Chest pain
  • A feeling of anxiety

Sometimes pheochromocytoma is part of another condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome (MEN). People with MEN often have other cancers and other problems involving hormones.

Surgery is the most common treatment. Other options include radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

NIH: National Cancer Institute

 
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Illustration of the kidneys and adrenal glands

National Institutes of Health