EC Dental Science

Pheochromocytoma is denominated as a paraganglioma arising from adrenal medulla and configures around ~7% of primary adrenal neoplasms. Tumefaction is composed of chromaffin cells which secrete catecholamine. Additionally designated as adrenal paraganglioma, pheochromocytoma is distinct from paraganglioma or extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma which emerges from chromaffin cells constituting sympathetic ganglia.

Frequently, pheochromocytoma emerges as a sporadic lesion with malignant metamorphosis occurring within 10% tumours. An estimated 40% neoplasms are accompanied by genetic syndromes wherein pathogenic mutations are discernible within 20% tumours. Thus, cogent genetic evaluation is comprehensively warranted.

The predominantly sporadic pheochromocytoma commonly represents within fourth decade or fifth decade. Neoplasms associated with hereditary syndromes may manifest within second decade to third decade and are commonly bilateral.

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6. Image 1 Courtesy: Wikipedia.
7. Image 2 Courtesy: Research gate.