A tumour of the adrenal glands which affects the secretion of hormones such as adrenaline, which in turn results in hypertension and hyperglycaemia.
A disorder in which a vascular tumour of the adrenal medulla develops. The tumour may also affect the structurally similar tissues associated with the chain of sympathetic nerves. There is uncontrolled and irregular secretion of adrenaline and noradrenaline with the result that the patient suffers from episodes of high blood pressure (hypertension), raised heart rate, and headache. Surgery to remove the tumour may be possible; if not, drug treatment may help.
A rare, typically benign, tumor originates in the medulla, the central part of the adrenal glands. This tumor emerges from cells that release the hormones adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine). As a result of the tumor, there’s an elevated production of these hormones, causing high blood pressure and stress symptoms like anxiety. The condition is most prevalent in young to middle-aged adults.
High blood pressure is often the sole symptom. However, specific triggers like pressure on the tumor, emotional distress, posture changes, or the intake of beta-blocker medications can lead to a sudden spike in hormone levels. This spike can cause symptoms such as a rapid increase in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, headache, nausea, vomiting, facial redness, excessive sweating, and in some cases, a sensation of imminent doom.
To diagnose the condition, blood tests and urine analysis are conducted to identify elevated levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. To pinpoint the tumors, CT scans, MRI, and radioisotope scanning might be employed. Typically, the tumors are surgically removed. Regular medical check-ups are essential since the condition can sometimes return.