Q&A on Pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytomas are tumors of the adrenal gland that secrete catecholamine. Closely related tumors called extraadrenal paragangliomas can arise at extraadrenal sites. Catecholamine secretion from these tumors causes headache, perspiration, palpitations and hypertension. If not recognized and treated, pheochromocytoma and extraadrenal paraganglioma can lead to arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, stroke and death.