Blockage Pheochromocytomas

Pheochromocytomas are a tumor that can be found inside the adrenal gland or on specialized cells of top of the adrenal gland. The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and are responsible for releasing very high levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. The inner area of the adrenal gland is called the adrenal medulla where the norepinephrine and dopamine are secreted by the cells. These cells are called catecholamine which is found inside the adrenal medulla. The catecholamine cells are responsible for creating the “flight or fight” hormone, in other words it releases the feeling of adrenaline. In this area a tumor can form due to the cells over producing the substance at such a fast rate. An overproduction occurs causing blockage

This tumor is not considered cancerous but instead considered a benign. It only becomes cancerous if it is associated with other disorders such as MEN II (multiple endocrine neoplasia or Neurofibromatosis. In most cases the tumor is found only because of other screenings were being completed. When this is the case it is always best to inform other family members to get a screening completed especially if they are suffering from other medical problems. Pheochromocytoma can be found during a Computerized tomography (CT), an X Ray or a Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other imaging test includes a positron emission tomography (PET) and an M-iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG), which detects the tiny radioactive compounds that are taken up by the tumor. If Pheochromocytoma is left untreated can cause a number of critical conditions such as a stroke, heart disease, kidney failure, and even damage the nerves of the eye. When the Pheochromocytoma is assisted with other disorders the cancerous cells brake of and spread to other parts of the body and metastasize. It will metastasize in other areas of the body but mainly directs itself to the liver, lings or the lymph system. It is a lot easier to find the tumors using images, which is why they are mostly found when the patient is getting other screenings done. According to the Mayo Clinic who said “ Most people with