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VOLUME 11 , ISSUE 3 ( September-December, 2019 ) > List of Articles

CASE REPORT

Clinical Challenges in Nonfunctional Pheochromocytomas

Su-Ann Lui, Han B Oh, Kong B Tan

Keywords : Catecholamines, Incidentalomas, Pheochromocytoma

Citation Information : Lui S, Oh HB, Tan KB. Clinical Challenges in Nonfunctional Pheochromocytomas. World J Endoc Surg 2019; 11 (3):86-90.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10002-1264

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 01-06-2015

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2019; The Author(s).


Abstract

Pheochromocytomas (PCCs) are rare endocrine tumors that arise from neural crest cells of the adrenal medulla. They commonly secrete catecholamines and other biological peptides that account for the symptoms namely, hypertension, palpitations, and episodic headaches associated with the condition. However, the symptoms and clinical presentations are highly variable due to variations in catecholamine biosynthesis and secretion because of differences in gene expression. A small proportion of tumors hardly synthesize or release any catecholamines and may have no symptoms and are termed as nonfunctional or subclinical PCCs. The nonfunctional tumors are commonly picked up as incidentalomas and biochemical work-up is usually negative. Undiagnosed subclinical normotensive PCCs could lead to catastrophic consequences during surgery and subsequently.

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