Phaeochromocytoma
Overview
A phaeochromocytoma is a rare tumour of the adrenal glands, which sit above the kidneys.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a phaeochromocytoma tend to be unpredictable, often occurring in sudden attacks lasting from a few minutes to an hour. The attacks may last longer, and become more frequent and severe, as the tumour grows. The symptoms and signs of a phaeochromocytoma can include: headachesheavy sweatingheart palpitationshigh blood pressurea pale facefeeling or being sickfeeling anxious or panickyshakiness (tremor) Some people with a phaeochromocytoma do not have symptoms, and their condition is either never diagnosed or only discovered during tests for another problem, such as high blood pressure. Others have symptoms for many years before a phaeochromocytoma is diagnosed.
Causes
Many phaeochromocytomas occur for no obvious reason and do not run in the family. However, up to 1 in every 3 occurs as part of an inherited genetic disorder, such as: von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndromeneurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) These genetic disorders cause different tumours or growths to develop around the body. If you're diagnosed with a phaeochromocytoma, your doctor may recommend havinggenetic testingto see if you have any of these disorders.