Alternative Names & Classifications:
Pheochromocytoma (CLINICAL)
Description
A pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-secreting tumor arising from chromaffin cells, most commonly found in the inner medulla of the adrenal glands. The tumor episodically or continuously dumps massive amounts of adrenaline and noradrenaline into the bloodstream. This triggers profound, potentially lethal sympathetic nervous system responses, most notably catastrophic spikes in blood pressure.