
Once the diagnosis is established, a CT/MRI adrenal protocol will be performed to determine the location of the tumor. If these tests are suggestive of disease, a confirmatory test with salt loading will be performed.
Nocturia (increased nighttime urination)ĭiagnosis is made by blood tests that measure aldosterone and renin levels. Signs and symptoms of primary hyperaldosteronism: They produce too much aldosterone, resulting in a condition known as primary hyperaldosteronism. Aldosteronoma (Aldosterone-producing Adrenal Adenoma)Īldosterone-producing adrenal adenomas (often referred to simply as “aldosteronomas”) are tumors originating from the glomerulosa zone of the adrenal cortex. This helps prevent unstable blood pressure during Prior to your operation, you will be placed on an antihypertensive medication for 1-3 weeks. The treatment for pheochromocytoma is adrenalectomy (removal of the affected adrenal gland). Imaging options include CT, MRI, and MIBG scans. Once the biochemical diagnosis has been made, an imaging study will be used to determine the location of the tumor (i.e., right vs. 10% occur outside the adrenal gland (paragangliomas).ĭiagnosis is made by blood and/or urine tests that measure catecholamines and metanephrines. 10% involve both adrenal glands (bilateral).
30% of pheochromocytomas are hereditary (familial).Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat).Severe hypertension (high blood pressure).Signs and symptoms of pheochromocytoma:.These tumors secrete excessive amounts of catecholamines, including epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. This is a type of tumor originating from the adrenal medulla. There are three main types of hyperfunctional tumors: pheochromocytomas,Īldosteronomas, and cortisol-producing adenomas. Each This kind of tumor inappropriately overproduces hormones. One common reason a person may need to have an adrenalectomy is a hyperfunctional tumor.