Can pheochromocytoma cause back pain?

Pheochromocytoma presenting as back pain is unusual and to our knowledge, only a few cases have been reported in the literature with back pain as the ‘only’ presenting symptom. They can present with other associated symptoms due to high catecholamine levels like watery diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

Can pheochromocytoma cause a stroke?

Catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy caused by pheochromocytoma is well-recognized, yet rare. Cerebral ischemia and stroke symptoms can also occur (rarely) in patients who have pheochromocytoma.

Is a pheochromocytoma fatal?

Pheochromocytomas are rare but treacherous catecholamine-producing tumors that, if not diagnosed or appropriately treated, will almost invariably prove fatal. The tumors may display numerous clinical manifestations similar to psychological or physiological stress.

What are the symptoms of pheochromocytoma in the kidney?

You have two adrenal glands —one located at the top of each kidney. Usually, a pheochromocytoma develops in only one adrenal gland. But tumors can develop in both. If you have a pheochromocytoma, the tumor releases hormones that may cause high blood pressure, headache, sweating and symptoms of a panic attack.

Are there any inherited cases of pheochromocytoma?

About 25-35% of cases of pheochromocytoma may be inherited. Some of these inherited cases may be associated with a genetic condition, such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Types 2a and 2b, Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome, and Neurofibromatosis.

Can a high blood pressure be a sign of pheochromocytoma?

The signs and symptoms of pheochromocytoma can be caused by a number of conditions. So it’s important to get a prompt diagnosis. Although high blood pressure is a primary sign of a pheochromocytoma, most people with high blood pressure don’t have an adrenal tumor.

How often do you have paroxysmal attacks with pheochromocytoma?

Some people with pheochromocytoma have symptoms, but others don’t. Symptoms may occur as often as several times a day to a couple of times per month. Some people may feel intense symptoms that last for a short period of time, called “paroxysmal attacks”.