Adrenaline Secreting Tumor: Understanding the Symptoms and Treatment Options

Adrenaline secreting tumors, also known as pheochromocytomas, are rare neuroendocrine tumors that can cause sudden spikes in blood pressure. These tumors occur more frequently in women than men and can happen several times a week or only a few times a year. Sudden attacks of hypertension often last less than an hour and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Symptoms of Adrenaline Secreting Tumor

The symptoms of an adrenaline secreting tumor can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:

* Pain in the lower chest or upper belly area

* High blood pressure before age 35 or after age 60

* Taking more than four drugs for high blood pressure

* Having high blood pressure that is difficult to control

In many cases, patients with pheochromocytoma experience three main symptoms: headaches, excess sweating, and a rapid heartbeat (palpitations).

Diagnosis of Adrenaline Secreting Tumor

To diagnose an adrenaline secreting tumor, healthcare providers typically order imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests can help locate the tumor in the adrenal gland or other parts of the body.

Treatment Options for Adrenaline Secreting Tumor

Treatment options for adrenaline secreting tumors depend on the severity of symptoms and the location of the tumor. Medical treatment is often used pre-operatively to manage hypertensive crises and treat metastatic disease if present. Surgical resection of the mass is usually the treatment of choice.

In some cases, patients may experience recurrent attacks of hypertension even after surgery. In these situations, additional treatment options such as radiofrequency ablation or chemotherapy may be necessary.

Complications of Adrenaline Secreting Tumor

Untreated adrenaline secreting tumors can lead to a range of complications, including:

* Hypertensive crises: sudden and severe spikes in blood pressure that can cause stroke, heart attack, or kidney failure

* Metastatic disease: spread of the tumor to other parts of the body

* Cardiac arrhythmias: abnormal heart rhythms

Prevention of Adrenaline Secreting Tumor Complications

To prevent complications from adrenaline secreting tumors, patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage symptoms and monitor blood pressure. This may involve taking medication as prescribed, making lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and getting regular exercise, and undergoing regular check-ups.

Adrenaline secreting tumors are rare but potentially serious conditions that can cause sudden spikes in blood pressure. By understanding the symptoms and treatment options for these tumors, patients can work with their healthcare provider to manage symptoms and prevent complications. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many patients with adrenaline secreting tumors can lead active and healthy lives.

References:

* American Cancer Society. (2020). Pheochromocytoma: Overview.

* MedlinePlus. (2020). Pheochromocytoma.

* National Institutes of Health. (2020). Pheochromocytoma.