eMedicine Specialties > Pediatrics: General Medicine > Oncology
Pheochromocytoma: Treatment & Medication
Updated: Aug 27, 2009
- Overview
- Differential Diagnoses & Workup
- Treatment & Medication
- Follow-up
- Multimedia
Treatment
Medical Care
- Perform initial workup of pheochromocytoma using the history, physical examination, laboratory, and diagnostic test findings. Indications for evaluation include the following:
- Patients with high blood pressure or recurrent hot flushes that are indicative of blood pressure peaks
- Patients with an adrenal mass
- Relatives of patients with MEN 2 or von Hippel-Lindau disease
- Schedule surgical removal only after successful pharmacotherapy to block the effects of catecholamine excess. Blockade of the alpha-adrenergic receptors in the preoperative phase is widely recommended, with additional beta-receptor blockade to treat cardiac dysrhythmias.
- Perform procedures in a hospital with the capability for intensive intraoperative and postoperative monitoring and therapy.
- During a hypertensive crisis, immediately institute alpha-blockade with phentolamine. Nitroprusside also should be used for uncontrolled hypertension.
- For further blood pressure control, initiate beta-blockade (esmolol-labetalol). A beta-blockade that is initiated without prior alpha-blockade can further exacerbate hypertension. As vasoconstriction is relieved, use vigorous fluid resuscitation to maintain a normal blood pressure.
- Ventricular tachyarrhythmias can be treated with lidocaine and amiodarone.
- The results of malignant pheochromocytoma appear to be related to the tumor quantity and the aggressiveness of the therapy. The long-term survival rate in patients with untreated malignant or unresectable tumors is unclear. Because of the rarity of the condition, no randomized clinical trials concerning the treatment of malignant pheochromocytoma have been performed.
- Chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been of questionable value in patients with unresectable disease. Unresectable disease may be rendered resectable by intensive chemotherapy. Chemotherapy currently has a response rate of approximately 50%. Unless chemotherapy allows surgical removal of the entire tumor, it is not usually curative. However, chemotherapy offers good palliation (for years) in a significant number of patients. On the other hand, if the treatment is fairly aggressive, palliation therapy (pain, catecholamine excess) may be long term (years).
- A long-term study reported follow-up of 18 patients with a diagnosis of malignant pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma who were treated with cyclophosphamide at 750 mg/m2, vincristine at 1.4 mg/m2, and dacarbazine at 600 mg/m2 on day 1 and dacarbazine at 600 mg/m2 on day 2, every 21-28 days.19 The treatment was well tolerated, with only grade I and II toxicities. In this 22-year follow-up, no difference in overall survival was observed between patients whose tumors objectively shrank and those with stable or progressive disease. Combination chemotherapy produced a complete response rate of 11% and a partial response rate of 44%. All patients with tumors scored as responding reported improvement in their symptoms related to excessive catecholamine release and had objective improvements in blood pressure. Median survival was 3.8 years for patients whose tumors respondedto therapy and 1.8 years for patients whose tumors did not respond (P = .65).
- Sunitinib (Sutent; previously known as SU11248) appears to be an active agent in the treatment of malignant pheochromocytomas based on limited cohort of patients and is currently in phase 2 trials.20,21,22 Sunitinib inhibits cellular signaling by targeting multiple receptor tyrosine kinases, such as platelet-derived growth factor receptors, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, which play a role in both tumor angiogenesis and tumor cell proliferation The best established strategy established is 131I-MIBG therapy, which is well tolerated. MIBG is specifically taken up by chromaffin cells. MIBG can induce remission for a limited period in a significant proportion of patients. Similar to MIBG, cytotoxic chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and dacarbazine, can induce remission for a limited period. Octreotide as a single agent seems to be largely ineffective. The value of radiation therapy in patients with malignant pheochromocytoma is debatable.
- Patients with germline mutation and no evidence of active illness should have continued follow-up for pheochromocytoma.23
Surgical Care
Surgery to remove pheochromocytomas is a high-risk procedure because of several reasons. Substantial comorbidity must be expected, including catecholamine-induced myocardiopathy. Intraoperative manipulation of the tumor may induce excessive catecholamine excretion, resulting in a life-threatening hypertensive crisis. Hypotensive crisis may occur because of a postoperative drop of catecholamines.
- Preoperative blockade of alpha-1 receptors has been used to reduce the risk of hypertensive episodes. Drugs such as urapidil has shown a significant reduction in hypertensive peaks.24
- Transabdominal surgery has been the traditional approach; it allows early ligation of the adrenal vein to minimize systemic catecholamine release during manipulation. This approach also facilitates exploration of the sympathetic chain for multifocality.
- Other options include a subcostal or posterior extraperitoneal approach that offers rapid recovery and avoids the risk of transperitoneal surgery (adhesions, bowel obstruction). Alternatively, a laparoscopic adrenalectomy can be considered; tumors as large as 11 cm have been successfully removed. The contraindications to laparoscopy include evidence of soft-tissue or vascular extra-adrenal extension. Bilateral tumors develop in children with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 and pheochromocytoma, and bilateral adrenalectomy has been recommended at presentation.
- Careful and intensive monitoring of the patient's status throughout the perioperative period is imperative.
- Hypotension that develops after tumor removal reflects reversal of the volume-contracted state and should respond to judicious replacement of fluids.
- Some patients may develop pulmonary edema, possibly as a result of impaired myocardial function and the inability to tolerate intravenous fluids.
- When the tumor is removed, the blood pressure usually falls to approximately 90/60 mm Hg. Lack of a fall in pressure at the time of tumor removal indicates the presence of additional tumor tissue.
- When bilateral adrenal tumors are found and both adrenals are removed, adrenocortical lifelong steroid replacement is required. Significant morbility is associated with bilateral adrenalectomy. Because of these risks, some clinicians have recommended adrenal-sparing surgery in patients who have bilateral tumors or who are at particular risk for a metachronous contralateral tumor.
Consultations
- Obtain consultations as needed for comorbid conditions and their definitive treatment (eg, pediatric surgeon, oncologist, cardiologist, ophthalmologist, endocrinologist).
Medication
To provide optimal treatment of patients with pheochromocytomas, an understanding of the pathophysiology produced by excessive catecholamines and an acquaintance with the action of adrenergic antagonists and other drugs used in the treatment of these patients is necessary.
Alpha-adrenergic blocking agents
These agents are used preoperatively in combination with beta-blockers. At low doses, alpha-adrenergic receptor blockers may be used as monotherapy in the treatment of hypertension. At higher doses, the agents may cause sodium and fluid to accumulate. As a result, concurrent diuretic therapy may be required to maintain the hypotensive effects of the alpha-receptor blockers.
Phenoxybenzamine (Dibenzyline)
Alpha1- and alpha2-adrenergic blocking agent that blocks circulating epinephrine and norepinephrine action, reducing hypertension. The agent decreases sympathetic tone on the vasculature, dilates blood vessels, and lowers arterial blood pressure. Long-acting properties produce and maintain a chemical sympathectomy. Lowers supine and upright blood pressures. Does not affect the parasympathetic nervous system.
Adult
10 mg PO bid initially; increase dose by 10-mg increments every other day until an optimal dosage is obtained; usual dosage range is 20-40 mg PO bid/tid
Pediatric
0.2 mg/kg PO initially (not to exceed 5-10 mg bid); gradually increase according to BP to 0.25-1 mg/kg/d PO divided q6-8h
Coadministration with alpha-adrenergic agonists decreases effects of phenoxybenzamine; beta-blockers increase toxicity
Documented hypersensitivity; MI; evidence of CAD; those in whom a fall in blood pressure would be undesirable
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Use cautiously during lactation; change position slowly; frequent and small meals are recommended to avoid GI upset; avoid tasks that require visual acuity; monitor heart rate and blood pressure; report unusual swelling of the extremities, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; caution in tachycardia, peptic ulcer, and gastritis; cerebrovascular occlusions and myocardial infarctions can occur following phentolamine administration
Phentolamine
Nonselective alpha-adrenergic blocking agent. Drug action is transient and alpha-adrenergic blockade incomplete. Often used immediately prior to or during adrenalectomy to prevent or control paroxysmal hypertension that results from anesthesia, stress, or operative manipulation of the tumor. Alpha1- and alpha2-adrenergic blocking agent that blocks circulating epinephrine and norepinephrine action, reducing hypertension that results from catecholamine effects on the alpha-receptors. First-line agent to treat hypertensive crisis.
Adult
Prevention or control of hypertension in pheochromocytomas: 5 mg IV/IM 1-2 h before surgery; repeat prn; administer 5 mg IV during surgery as indicated to control paroxysms of hypertension, tachycardia, respiratory depression, or seizures
Pediatric
Preoperative reduction of elevated BP: 1 mg IV/IM 1-2 h (0.05-0.1 mg/kg/dose, not to exceed 5 mg/dose) before surgery; repeat prn; administer 1 mg IV during surgery as indicated to control paroxysms of hypertension, tachycardia, respiratory depression, and convulsions
Decreases vasoconstrictor and hypertensive effects of epinephrine and ephedrine
Documented hypersensitivity; evidence of CAD; renal impairment
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
May produce weakness, dizziness, and nausea; acute and prolonged hypotensive episodes; tachycardia; and arrhythmias
Prazosin (Minipress)
Postsynaptic alpha1-antagonist; decreases blood pressure with minimal risk of reflex tachycardia.
Adult
1 mg PO bid/tid initially; increase prn; not to exceed 20 mg/d PO divided bid/tid
Pediatric
Initial: 5 mcg/kg PO test dose
Maintenance: 25-150 mcg/kg/d divided q6h; not to exceed 15 mg/d
Severity and duration of hypotension following first dose of prazosin may be increased in patients receiving beta-adrenergic blocking drugs (eg, propranolol) or verapamil; indomethacin may decrease antihypertensive activity of prazosin; prazosin may decrease antihypertensive effects of clonidine
Documented hypersensitivity
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Marked orthostatic hypotension, syncope, and loss of consciousness may occur with first dose; rash, pruritus, alopecia, diaphoresis, lupus erythematosus, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, lack of energy, nausea, palpitations, and weakness can occur; decrease dose in severe renal insufficiency
Beta-adrenergic blocking agents
These agents are used as adjunctive therapy for cardiac effects. The agents inhibit chronotropic, inotropic, and vasodilatory responses to beta-adrenergic stimulation.
Propranolol (Inderal)
Nonselective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker. After primary treatment with an alpha-receptor blocker, propranolol may be used as adjunctive therapy if control of tachycardia becomes necessary before or during surgery. May be used to treat excessive beta-receptor stimulation in patients with inoperable metastatic pheochromocytoma. Has membrane-stabilizing activity and decreases automaticity of contractions. Decreases effects of the sympathetic nervous system on the heart and juxtaglomerular apparatus, release of renin, and blood pressure. Acts in the CNS to reduce sympathetic outflow and vasoconstrictor tone. Not suitable for emergency treatment of hypertension. Do not administer IV in hypertensive emergencies.
Adult
Hypertension: 40 mg/dose PO bid; may increase 10-20 mg/dose q3-5d; not to exceed 640 mg/d
Pheochromocytoma preoperatively: 60 mg/d PO for 3 d in divided doses; inoperable tumor, 30 mg/d PO in divided doses
Pediatric
0.5-1 mg/kg/d PO divided q6-12h initially; may increase dose q3-5d prn; not to exceed 8 mg/kg/d
Coadministration with aluminum salts, barbiturates, NSAIDs, penicillins, calcium salts, cholestyramine, and rifampin may decrease propranolol effects; calcium channel blockers, cimetidine, loop diuretics, and MAOIs may increase toxicity of propranolol; toxicity of hydralazine, haloperidol, benzodiazepines, and phenothiazines may increase with propranolol
Documented hypersensitivity; sinus bradycardia; second- or third-degree heart block; cardiogenic shock; CHF; asthma; COPD
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Can cause dizziness, fatigue, gastric pain, flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bradycardia, cardiac arrhythmias, AV nodal block, bronchospasm, impotence, decrease in exercise tolerance, hyperglycemia, or hypoglycemia; may decrease signs of acute hypoglycemia and hyperthyroidism; use cautiously in hypoglycemia and diabetes, thyrotoxicosis, hepatic dysfunction
Labetalol (Trandate)
Blocks beta1-, alpha-, and beta2-adrenergic receptor sites, thus decreasing blood pressure.
Adult
Incremental doses starting at 20-40 mg IV; a response should be obtained within 5 min and a maximum effect at 10 min; IV dose can be doubled q30-60min until target BP is achieved; not to exceed 300 mg total dose
Pediatric
Limited data available for pediatric hypertensive emergencies; initial doses of 0.2-0.5 mg/kg/dose IV as intermittent bolus; not to exceed 20 mg/dose; alternatively, a continuous IV infusion of 0.4-1 mg/kg/h IV; may increase as warranted; not to exceed 3 mg/kg/h
Decreases effect of diuretics and increases toxicity of methotrexate, lithium, and salicylates; may diminish reflex tachycardia, resulting from nitroglycerin use, without interfering with hypotensive effects; cimetidine may increase labetalol blood levels; glutethimide may decrease labetalol effects by inducing microsomal enzymes
Documented hypersensitivity; cardiogenic shock; pulmonary edema; bradycardia; atrioventricular block; uncompensated congestive heart failure; reactive airway disease; severe bradycardia
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Caution in impaired hepatic function; discontinue therapy upon signs of liver dysfunction; a lower response rate and higher incidence of toxicity may be observed in elderly patients
Esmolol (Brevibloc)
Excellent drug for use in patients at risk for experiencing complications from beta-blockade, particularly those with reactive airway disease, mild-to-moderate LV dysfunction, and/or peripheral vascular disease. Short half-life of 8 min allows for titration to desired effect and quick discontinuation if needed.
Adult
Loading dose: 500 mcg/kg IV over 1 min, followed by 50 mcg/kg/min for 4 min; if an adequate BP is not achieved within 5 min, repeat loading dose and increase infusion to 100 mcg/kg/min; repeat loading dose and titrate infusion rate upwards at 50 mcg/kg/min every 5 min prn; stop further loading doses once therapeutic blood pressure is reached
Pediatric
Infants and children: Limited information is available; suggested dose is 100-500 mcg/kg IV administered over 1 min initially, followed by 200 mcg/kg/min IV; titrate upward by 50-100 mcg/kg/min q5-10min until heart rate or BP decrease by >10%, typical dose 550 mcg/kg/min (range = 300-1000 mcg/kg/min)
Aluminum salts, barbiturates, NSAIDs, penicillins, calcium salts, cholestyramine, and rifampin may decrease bioavailability and plasma levels of esmolol, possibly resulting in decreased pharmacologic effect; cardiotoxicity of esmolol may increase when administered concurrently with sparfloxacin, astemizole, calcium channel blockers, quinidine, flecainide, and contraceptives; toxicity of esmolol increases when administered concurrently with digoxin, flecainide, acetaminophen, clonidine, epinephrine, nifedipine, prazosin, haloperidol, phenothiazines, and catecholamine-depleting agents
Documented hypersensitivity; uncompensated congestive heart failure; bradycardia; cardiogenic shock; AV conduction abnormalities
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Beta-adrenergic blockers may mask signs and symptoms of acute hypoglycemia and clinical signs of hyperthyroidism; symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including thyroid storm, may worsen when medication is abruptly withdrawn; withdraw drug slowly and monitor patient closely
Nitrates
These agents provide peripheral and coronary vasodilation.
Sodium nitroprusside (Nitropress)
Acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause vasodilatation, reduce BP, and increased inotropic effect.
Adult
0.3-0.5 mcg/kg/min IV continuous IV infusion initially, titrate upward by 0.5 mcg/kg/min increments to effect; usual dose is 3-4 mcg/kg/min; infusion rates >10 mcg/kg/min may lead to cyanide toxicity
Pediatric
Administer as in adults
Additive effects when administered with other antihypertensive agents
Documented hypersensitivity; subaortic stenosis; idiopathic hypertrophic, atrial fibrillation or flutter; decreased cerebral perfusion; situations of compensatory hypertension
Pregnancy
C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Caution in increased intracranial pressure, hepatic failure, severe renal impairment, and hypothyroidism; in renal or hepatic insufficiency, nitroprusside levels may increase and can cause cyanide toxicity; sodium nitroprusside can lower blood pressure and, thus, should be used only in patients with mean arterial pressures >70 mm Hg
Antiarrhythmic agents
These agents alter the electrophysiologic mechanisms responsible for arrhythmia.
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
May inhibit AV conduction and sinus node function. Prolongs action potential and refractory period in myocardium and inhibits adrenergic stimulation. Before administration, control the ventricular rate and CHF (if present) with digoxin or calcium channel blockers.
Adult
Rapid loading: 5 mg/kg IV; not to exceed 450 mg; mixed in D5W infused over 10-30 min; not to exceed 50 mg/kg
Pediatric
Loading dose: 10-15 mg/kg/d or 600-800 mg/1.73 m2/d PO for 4-14 d or until adequate control of arrhythmia is attained, reduce to 5 mg/kg/d or 200-400 mg/1.73 m2/d for several weeks
Limited data available for IV loading dose
Maintenance dose: 2.5 mg/kg/d PO or lowest effective dose following loading
Increases effect and blood levels of theophylline, quinidine, procainamide, phenytoin, methotrexate, flecainide, digoxin, cyclosporine, beta-blockers, and anticoagulants; cardiotoxicity of amiodarone is increased by ritonavir, sparfloxacin, and disopyramide; coadministration with calcium channel blockers may cause an additive effect and decrease myocardial contractility further; cimetidine may increase amiodarone levels
Documented hypersensitivity; complete AV block; intraventricular conduction defects; protease inhibitors (eg, indinavir, ritonavir, amprenavir, nelfinavir) inhibit amiodarone metabolism, resulting in increased serum levels, and may prolong QT interval; coadministration may increase myopathy and rhabdomyolysis risk associated with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (eg, simvastatin); other drugs that prolong the QT interval (eg, fluoroquinolones, erythromycin, dofetilide, tricyclic antidepressants, thioridazine) may increase life-threatening arrhythmia risk
Pregnancy
D - Fetal risk shown in humans; use only if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
Precautions
Caution in breastfeeding women, thyroid or liver disease, may cause proarrhythmic effect, optic neuritis, CNS toxicity, hypothyroidism, hepatotoxicity, interstitial pneumonitis or pulmonary fibrosis; CNS and GI toxicity may occur and typically dissipate with dose reduction
Lidocaine (Xylocaine)
Class IB antiarrhythmic that increases electrical stimulation threshold of the ventricle, suppressing automaticity of conduction through the tissue.
Adult
0.7-1.4 mg/kg IV push, repeat in 5 min; not to exceed 300 mg/h; follow with an infusion of 2-4 mg/kg/min
Pediatric
Loading dose: 1 mg/kg IV; repeat in 10-15 min for 2 doses
Continuous infusion: 20-50 mcg/kg/min IV
Coadministration with cimetidine or beta-blockers increases toxicity of lidocaine; coadministration with procainamide and tocainide may result in additive cardiodepressant action; may increase effects of succinylcholine
Documented hypersensitivity to amide-type local anesthetics; avoid in Adams-Stokes syndrome and Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome; avoid in severe sinoatrial, AV, or intraventricular block if artificial pacemaker not in place
Pregnancy
B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
Precautions
Use a solution without preservatives; caution in heart failure, hepatic disease, hypoxia, hypovolemia or shock, respiratory-depression, and bradycardia; may increase risk of CNS and cardiac adverse effects in elderly patients; high plasma concentrations can cause seizures, heart block, and AV conduction abnormalities
More on Pheochromocytoma |
| Overview: Pheochromocytoma |
| Differential Diagnoses & Workup: Pheochromocytoma |
Treatment & Medication: Pheochromocytoma |
| Follow-up: Pheochromocytoma |
| Multimedia: Pheochromocytoma |
| References |
| « Previous Page | Next Page » |
References
Eisenhofer G, Huynh TT, Elkahloun A, Morris JC, Bratslavsky G, Linehan WM. Differential expression of the regulated catecholamine secretory pathway in different hereditary forms of pheochromocytoma. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. Nov 2008;295(5):E1223-33. [Medline].
Tischler AS, Powers JF, Alroy J. Animal models of pheochromocytoma. Histol Histopathol. Jul 2004;19(3):883-95. [Medline].
Martiniova L, Lai EW, Elkahloun AG, Abu-Asab M, Wickremasinghe A, Solis DC. Characterization of an animal model of aggressive metastatic pheochromocytoma linked to a specific gene signature. Clin Exp Metastasis. 2009;26(3):239-50. [Medline].
Korpershoek E, Loonen AJ, Corvers S, van Nederveen FH, Jonkers J, Ma X. Conditional Pten knock-out mice: a model for metastatic phaeochromocytoma. J Pathol. Mar 2009;217(4):597-604. [Medline].
Yu R, Nissen NN, Chopra P, Dhall D, Phillips E, Wei M. Diagnosis and treatment of pheochromocytoma in an academic hospital from 1997 to 2007. Am J Med. Jan 2009;122(1):85-95. [Medline].
Khorram-Manesh A, Ahlman H, Nilsson O, et al. Long-term outcome of a large series of patients surgically treated for pheochromocytoma. J Intern Med. Jul 2005;258(1):55-66. [Medline].
Zelinka T, Timmers HJ, Kozupa A, et al. Role of positron emission tomography and bone scintigraphy in the evaluation of bone involvement in metastatic pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma: specific implications for succinate dehydrogenase enzyme subunit B gene mutations. Endocr Relat Cancer. Mar 2008;15(1):311-23. [Medline].
Lai EW, Perera SM, Havekes B, Timmers HJ, Brouwers FM, McElroy B. Gender-related differences in the clinical presentation of malignant and benign pheochromocytoma. Endocrine. Aug-Dec 2008;34(1-3):96-100. [Medline].
Amar L, Bertherat J, Baudin E, et al. Genetic testing in pheochromocytoma or functional paraganglioma. J Clin Oncol. Dec 1 2005;23(34):8812-8. [Medline].
Dannenberg H, van Nederveen FH, Abbou M, et al. Clinical characteristics of pheochromocytoma patients with germline mutations in SDHD. J Clin Oncol. Mar 20 2005;23(9):1894-901. [Medline].
Jimenez C, Cote G, Arnold A, Gagel RF. Should Patients with Apparently Sporadic Pheochromocytomas or Paragangliomas be Screened for Hereditary Syndromes?. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. May 30 2006;[Medline]. [Full Text].
Neumann HP, Bausch B, McWhinney SR, et al. Germ-line mutations in nonsyndromic pheochromocytoma. N Engl J Med. May 9 2002;346(19):1459-66. [Medline].
Hickman PE, Leong M, Chang J, Wilson SR, McWhinney B. Plasma free metanephrines are superior to urine and plasma catecholamines and urine catecholamine metabolites for the investigation of phaeochromocytoma. Pathology. Feb 2009;41(2):173-7. [Medline].
Boyle JG, Davidson DF, Perry CG, Connell JM. Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of urinary free metanephrines, vanillyl mandelic Acid, and catecholamines and plasma catecholamines for diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Dec 2007;92(12):4602-8. [Medline].
Imani F, Agopian VG, Auerbach MS, Walter MA, Imani F, Benz MR. 18F-FDOPA PET and PET/CT accurately localize pheochromocytomas. J Nucl Med. Apr 2009;50(4):513-9. [Medline].
Fiebrich HB, Brouwers AH, van Bergeijk L, van den Berg G. Image in endocrinology. Localization of an adrenocorticotropin-producing pheochromocytoma using 18F-dihydroxyphenylalanine positron emission tomography. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Mar 2009;94(3):748-9. [Medline].
Kauhanen S, Seppanen M, Ovaska J, Minn H, Bergman J, Korsoff P. The clinical value of [18F]fluoro-dihydroxyphenylalanine positron emission tomography in primary diagnosis, staging, and restaging of neuroendocrine tumors. Endocr Relat Cancer. Mar 2009;16(1):255-65. [Medline].
Erlic Z, Neumann HP. When should genetic testing be obtained in a patient with phaeochromocytoma or paraganglioma?. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). Mar 2009;70(3):354-7. [Medline].
Huang H, Abraham J, Hung E, Averbuch S, Merino M, Steinberg SM. Treatment of malignant pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and dacarbazine: recommendation from a 22-year follow-up of 18 patients. Cancer. Oct 15 2008;113(8):2020-8. [Medline].
Joshua AM, Ezzat S, Asa SL, Evans A, Broom R, Freeman M. Rationale and evidence for sunitinib in the treatment of malignant paraganglioma/pheochromocytoma. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Jan 2009;94(1):5-9. [Medline].
Park KS, Lee JL, Ahn H, Koh JM, Park I, Choi JS. Sunitinib, a novel therapy for anthracycline- and cisplatin-refractory malignant pheochromocytoma. Jpn J Clin Oncol. May 2009;39(5):327-31. [Medline].
Jimenez C, Cabanillas ME, Santarpia L, Jonasch E, Kyle KL, Lano EA. Use of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib in a patient with von Hippel-Lindau disease: targeting angiogenic factors in pheochromocytoma and other von Hippel-Lindau disease-related tumors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Feb 2009;94(2):386-91. [Medline].
[Guideline] Gertner ME, Kebebew E. Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2. Curr Treat Options Oncol. 2004;5:315-25. [Medline].
Gosse P, Tauzin-Fin P, Sesay MB, Sautereau A, Ballanger P. Preparation for surgery of phaeochromocytoma by blockade of alpha-adrenergic receptors with urapidil: what dose?. J Hum Hypertens. Sep 2009;23(9):605-9. [Medline].
Amar L, Baudin E, Burnichon N, et al. Succinate dehydrogenase B gene mutations predict survival in patients with malignant pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Oct 2007;92(10):3822-8. [Medline].
Behrman RE, Kliegman R, eds. Pheochromocytoma. In: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Co; 1998:1741-3.
Brouwers FM, Petricoin EF 3rd, Ksinantiva L, et al. Low molecular weight proteomic information distinguishes metastatic from benign pheochromocytoma. Endocr Relat Cancer. Jun 2005;12:263-72. [Medline].
Davidson DF. Elevated urinary dopamine in adults and children. Ann Clin Biochem. May 2005;42(Pt 3):200-7. [Medline].
Ein SH, Shandling B, Wesson D, Filler R. Recurrent pheochromocytomas in children. J Pediatr Surg. Oct 1990;25(10):1063-5. [Medline].
Gimenez-Roqueplo AP, Favier J, Rustin P, et al. Mutations in the SDHB gene are associated with extra-adrenal and/or malignant phaeochromocytomas. Cancer Res. Sep 1 2003;63(17):5615-21. [Medline].
Giovanella L, Ceriani L, Balerna M, et al. Diagnostic value of serum chromogranin-A combined with MIBG scintigraphy in patients with adrenal incidentalomas. Q J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. Jun 1 2007;[Medline].
Greenspan FS, Forsham PH, eds. Pheochromocytoma. In: Basic and Clinical Endocrinology. 2nd ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 1986:336-44.
Harding JL, Yeh MW, Robinson BG, et al. Potential pitfalls in the diagnosis of phaeochromocytoma. Med J Aust. Jun 20 2005;182(12):637-40. [Medline]. [Full Text].
Kohane DS, Ingelfinger JR, Nimkin K, Wu CL. Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Case 16-2005. A nine-year-old girl with headaches and hypertension. N Engl J Med. May 26 2005;352(21):2223-31. [Medline].
Luo Z, Li J, Qin Y, et al. Differential expression of human telomerase catalytic subunit mRNA by in situ hybridization in pheochromocytomas. Endocr Pathol. 2006;17(4):387-98. [Medline].
Mannelli M, Simi L, Gagliano MS, et al. Genetics and biology of pheochromocytoma. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. Mar 2007;115(3):160-5. [Medline].
Mittendorf EA, Evans DB, Lee JE, Perrier ND. Pheochromocytoma: advances in genetics, diagnosis, localization, and treatment. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2007;21:509-25. [Medline].
Muller U, Troidi C, Niemann S. SDHC mutations in hereditary paraganglioma/pheochromocytoma Review. Familiar Cancer. 2004;4:9-12. [Medline].
Neumayer C, Moritz A, Asari R, et al. Novel SDHD germ-line mutations in pheochromocytoma patients. Eur J Clin Invest. Jul 2007;37(7):544-51. [Medline].
Pacak K, Eisenhofer G, Ahlman H, et al. Pheochromocytoma: recommendations for clinical practice from the First International Symposium. October 2005. Nat Clin Pract Endocrinol Metab. Feb 2007;3(2):92-102. [Medline].
Perel Y, Schlumberger M, Marguerite G, et al. Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma in children: a report of 24 cases of the French Society of Pediatric Oncology. Pediatr Hematol Oncol. Sep-Oct 1997;14(5):413-22. [Medline].
Perry CG, Sawka AM, Singh R, Thabane L, Bajnarek J, Young WF. The diagnostic efficacy of urinary fractionated metanephrines measured by tandem mass spectrometry in detection of pheochromocytoma. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). May 2007;66:71-8. [Medline].
Pigny P, Cardot-Bauters C, Do Cao C, Vantyghem MC, Carnaille B, Pattou F. Should genetic testing be performed in each patient with sporadic pheochromocytoma at presentation?. Eur J Endocrinol. Feb 2009;160(2):227-31. [Medline].
Ross JH. Pheochromocytoma. Special considerations in children. Urol Clin North Am. Aug 2000;27(3):393-402. [Medline].
Scholz T, Eisenhofer G, Pacak K, Dralle H, Lehnert H. Clinical review: Current treatment of malignant pheochromocytoma. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. April 2007;92:1217-25. [Medline].
Scholz T, Schulz C, Klose S, Lehnert H. Diagnostic management of benign and malignant pheochromocytoma. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. Mar 2007;115(3):155-9. [Medline].
Stackpole RH, Melicow MM, Uson AC. Pheochromocytoma in children. Report of 9 case and review of the first 100 published cases with follow-up studies. J Pediatr. Aug 1963;63:314-30. [Medline].
Turner MC, Lieberman E, DeQuattro V. The perioperative management of pheochromocytoma in children. Clin Pediatr (Phila). Oct 1992;31(10):583-9. [Medline].
Vaclavik J, Stejskal D, Lacnak B, et al. Free plasma metanephrines as a screening test for pheochromocytoma in low-risk patients. J Hypertens. Jul 2007;25(7):1427-31. [Medline].
Young JB, Landsberg L. Pheochromocytoma. In: Wilson JD, Foster DW, Kronenberg HM, Williams RH, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders Co; 1998:705-16.
Zapanti E, Ilias I. Pheochromocytoma: physiopathologic implications and diagnostic evaluation. Ann N Y Acad Sci. Nov 2006;1088:346-60. [Medline].
Further Reading
Keywords
tumor, catecholamine, catecholamine-secreting tumor, chromaffin cells, vanillylmandelic acid, VMA, homovanillic acid, HVA, paraganglioma, extra-adrenal tumor of the paraganglion system, nonfunctional tumor of the paraganglion system, functional tumor, extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma, paroxysmal attacks, diaphoresis, autosomal dominant trait, mitochondrial complex II, pheochromocytoma-paraganglioma syndrome, neurofibromatosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, von Hippel-Lindau's disease, tuberous sclerosis
Sturge-Weber syndrome, Sturge-Weber's syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes, MEN, MEN 2A, MEN 2B. neuroendocrine, tyrosine hydroxylase, tachycardia, hypermetabolism, norepinephrine, epinephrine, hypertension, hypotension, syncope, alpha-adrenergic receptor, beta-adrenergic receptor, metastatic disease, alpha-receptor–mediated peripheral vasoconstriction, hyperthermia, cachexia, hypermetabolism, diabetes mellitus, glucose intolerance, hypercalcemia, hyperparathyroidism, cardiomyopathy, neuroblastic cells, neuroblastomas, ganglioneuromas, hypermetabolism, hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, Zellballen, metaiodobenzylguanidine, MIBG, treatment, diagnosis
Treatment & Medication: Pheochromocytoma