Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-producing tumor of the sympathetic nerv
ous system. Signs and symptoms are generally related to catecholamine exces
s; these include hypertension, sweating, palpitatione, headaches, and anxie
ty attacks. Abdominal imaging and 24-h urine collection for catecholamines
are usually be sufficient for diagnosis. Catecholamine blockade with phenox
ybenzamine and metyrosine generally ameliorates symptoms and is necessary t
o prevent hypertensive crisis during surgery. Standard treatment is laparos
copic adrenalectomy, although partial adrenalectomy is gaining enthusiastic
support in familial forms of pheochromocytoma.