Pheochromocytoma (cont.)
How is a pheochromocytoma treated?
Surgery is the definitive treatment. Until the tumor is
removed, control of blood pressure is a top priority. Controlling blood pressure
before and during surgery is the trickiest part of care. There is a chance of
developing an acute
hypertensive crisis after anesthesia is given during the surgery. The blood
pressure is therefore closely monitored through the procedure.
Because of the types of hormones involved in a pheochromocytoma, blood
pressure control utilizes agents of a specific class of drugs known as alpha
blockers. There are also certain drugs available which inhibit the formation of
hormones by the tumor. These medications can be used if needed preoperatively.
In the rare instances of pheochromocytomas that are
malignant, chemotherapy
may be required after surgery.
What is the outlook with a pheochromocytoma?
Both malignant and benign pheochromocytomas can
recur after surgery. The statistics vary from one study to the next but
recurrence rates average around
10%. Therefore, long-term followup after surgery is very important.
Last Editorial Review: 3/30/2005
- phenoxybenzamine-oral, Dibenzyline - Consumer information about the medication PHENOXYBENZAMINE - ORAL (Dibenzyline), includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug PHENOXYBENZAMINE - ORAL.
- CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) - CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography, CAT scan) is a procedure that assists in diagnosing tumors, fractures, bony structures, and infections in the organs and tissues of the body.
- High Blood Pressure - Learn about high blood pressure symptoms like headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, blurred vision and more. Causes, and normal blood pressure information is included.
Latest Medical News
High Blood Pressure RSS