Risk Factors And Causes For A Pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytomas are tumors that form on the adrenal glands, located just on top of the kidneys. The tumors are a type of paraganglioma and are benign in ninety percent of cases. Typically, pheochromocytomas develop from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal glands, resulting in too many catecholamines being released into the body. This flood of catecholamines triggers a variety of symptoms, including high blood pressure, fast heart rate, sweating, headaches, shortness of breath, and pale skin. Some patients may also experience weight loss, anxiety, and constipation.