Pheochromocytoma is a Rare Neuroendocrine Tumor: About Two Case Reports

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma is a hormone secreting benign neuroendocrine tumor of adrenal medulla containing chromaffin cells. These cells are located in the medulla of an adrenal gland, they release certain hormones, mainly epinephrine(adrenaline) and norepinephrine(non-adrenaline). When a pheochromocytoma the tumor releases hormones that causes, high blood pressure, headache, hyperhidrosis and symptoms of a panic attacks or spells. Adrenaline and noradrenaline triggers the body fight or flight response. Usually, pheochromocytoma affects only one adrenal gland but it can affect both glands. 90% pheochromocytoma are benign tumour but 10% pheochromocytoma may be malignant. Pheochromocytoma occur more often age between 30 and 50 years of age. Approximately 25 to 35% of people have a hereditary condition such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type II syndrome, Van-Hippel- Liandu syndrome and neurofibromatosis type I. Chromaffin cell tumor located outside of the adrenal glands are called paragangliomas, which causes same effects on the body as a pheochromocytoma. Surgical resection is the main treatment for pheochromocytoma. We are reporting two rare cases of pheochromocytoma in a 30 years female and 60 years male, having symptoms of high blood pressure, headache and hyperhidrosis. Diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was confirmed by CT abdomen, 24-hour urine test and blood catecholamine test. Female patient was treated by open adrenalectomy and Male patient was performed laparoscopic adrenalectomy.