Phaeochromocytoma & Paraganglioma
Answers to common questions about phaeochromocytoma & paraganglioma.
Questions on this page
What is a phaeochromocytoma?
A phaeochromocytoma is a rare tumour arising from adrenal chromaffin cells that can produce excess catecholamines.
What symptoms can it cause?
Possible symptoms include:
- Episodic headaches
- Sweating
- Palpitations
- Tremor
- High blood pressure
What is a paraganglioma?
A paraganglioma is a related neuroendocrine tumour arising outside the adrenal gland.
Can these tumours be genetic?
Yes. A significant proportion of phaeochromocytomas and paragangliomas are associated with hereditary syndromes or genetic variants.
Why is genetic evaluation important?
Identifying a hereditary cause may influence treatment, surveillance and screening of family members.