Many phaeochromocytomas occur for no obvious reason and do not run in the family. Others have symptoms for many years before a phaeochromocytoma is diagnosed. Some people with a phaeochromocytoma do not have symptoms, and their condition is either never diagnosed or only discovered during tests for another problem, such as high blood pressure. The symptoms and signs of a phaeochromocytoma can include: The attacks may last longer, and become more frequent and severe, as the tumour grows. The symptoms of a phaeochromocytoma tend to be unpredictable, often occurring in sudden attacks lasting from a few minutes to an hour. These hormones control heart rate, blood pressure and metabolism (the chemical processes that keep your organs working).Ī phaeochromocytoma can cause the adrenal glands to produce too much of these hormones, which often results in problems such as heart palpitations and high blood pressure. The adrenal glands make a number of important hormones, which are released into the bloodstream when needed. How the tumour affects the adrenal glands It's usually possible to successfully remove a phaeochromocytoma using surgery. It will usually be non-cancerous (benign), although around 1 in 10 are cancerous (malignant). The tumour is mainly found in adults, although children can sometimes develop one. A phaeochromocytoma is a rare tumour of the adrenal glands, which sit above the kidneys.
