Best Pheochromocytoma Doctors in Lucknow

Types/Stages of Pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytomas are categorised into different stages based on the location, size, and extent of spread of the tumour:

• Localised Pheochromocytoma: The tumour is confined to the adrenal gland. It is classified as stage 1 (tumour is 5 centimeters or smaller) or stage 2 (tumour is larger than 5 centimeters but has not spread beyond the adrenal gland) depending on its size.

• Localised Paraganglioma: The tumour resides solely within the organ or tissue it originated from, without spreading to other parts of the body.

• Regional Pheochromocytoma: This is considered as stage 3 when the tumour extends beyond the adrenal gland to nearby lymph nodes or organs.

• Metastatic Pheochromocytoma: This is classified as stage 4, where the tumour has spread to distant organs or tissues, such as the liver, lungs, bones, or distant lymph nodes.

Symptoms of Pheochromocytoma

The symptoms exhibited by individuals with Pheochromocytoma vary, but commonly include:

• High, often erratic blood pressure

• Rapid and irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

• Intense headaches

• Profuse sweating

• Anxiety or panic attack-like symptoms

• Unexplained weight loss

• Tremors

Tests to Diagnose Pheochromocytoma

The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma is undertaken by specialists in pheochromocytoma through various tests, including:

• 24-hour Urine Test: This test evaluates the levels of certain substances, such as catecholamines and their metabolites (metanephrines), in urine collected over 24 hours.

• Blood Tests: These tests assess hormone levels, specifically catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline) and their metabolites (metanephrines).

• Imaging Tests: Scans such as CT and MRI allow doctors to visualise the adrenal glands and identify any abnormalities.

• Radioactive Iodine MIBG Scan: This examination utilises a radioactive iodine molecule that is absorbed by pheochromocytoma cells to help visualise the tumour and guide subsequent surgery.

• Biopsy: A tissue sample from the tumour is examined under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Pheochromocytoma at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow

At Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow, a range of effective treatment options are offered by the best doctors for pheochromocytoma treatment, including:

• Surgery: The first line of treatment is usually the surgical removal of the tumour. Apollo’s skilled team of surgeons treating pheochromocytoma is experienced in is experienced in performing adrenalectomy, the surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands.

• Medication: Medications include alpha-blockers (phenoxybenzamine or doxazosin) to block catecholamine effects on blood vessels, beta-blockers (propranolol) to manage rapid heart rate after alpha-blockers, and calcium channel blockers (nifedipine) to help control blood pressure, sometimes used with alpha-blockers.

• Radiation Therapy: In cases where surgery is not feasible or the tumour is malignant, radiation therapy may be employed to shrink the tumor and manage symptoms.