Surgery: A pheochromocytoma is a tumor that secretes excessive adrenal hormones, causing life-threatening spikes in blood pressure. Symptoms include sweating, palpitations, headaches, nausea and rapid increases in blood pressure. The definitive treatment is to remove the tumor, typically along with the adrenal gland in which it is growing.
Answered 12/9/2013
6k views
Surgery: Medical treatment is done with alpha- and beta-blockers, BP meds that block the effects of the secreted substances. Take these religiously! surgery is not emergent and should only be done after BP controlled. Currently extreme shortage on phentolamine, only IV agent truly effective during surgery. If not properly treated before surgery, can result in stroke and death from BP spike.
Answered 6/10/2014
6k views
26 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
9 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your question