What Is Pheochromocytoma Crisis? Causes, Symptoms

Pheochromocytoma Crisis is a rare but serious condition caused by a tumor in the adrenal glands. These tumors produce excess amounts of hormones called catecholamines, such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, which can lead to sudden and severe spikes in blood pressure. This can result in a Pheochromocytoma Crisis, characterized by dangerously high blood pressure levels that can be life-threatening if not promptly managed.

The exact cause of Pheochromocytoma is not always clear, but most cases are sporadic, meaning they occur without a clear genetic link. In some instances, Pheochromocytomas may be associated with certain genetic syndromes, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia

What Are the Symptoms of the Pheochromocytoma Crisis?

Pheochromocytoma crisis can cause a sudden onset of severe symptoms such as high blood pressure, pounding headache, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and palpitations. Patients may also experience anxiety, tremors, and feelings of impending doom.

Additionally, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath can occur during a crisis. These symptoms require immediate medical attention to prevent potentially life-threatening complications. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek emergency care promptly for proper evaluation and management.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Pheochromocytoma Crisis

The causes of pheochromocytoma crisis are primarily related to the excessive release of catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline) from the pheochromocytoma tumor. Factors that can trigger or worsen a pheochromocytoma crisis include:

Tumor Manipulation or Surgery: Handling or biopsy of the pheochromocytoma during surgery or diagnostic procedures can lead to a sudden release of catecholamines, triggering a crisis.
Stress: Physical or emotional stress, such as trauma, surgery, infection, or anxiety, can stimulate the tumor to release more catecholamines.
Medications: Certain medications, including drugs that interfere with blood pressure regulation (like beta-blockers or anti-hypertensives), can precipitate a crisis, especially if used without appropriate alpha-blockade.
Physical Activity: Strenuous physical exertion can increase sympathetic stimulation, causing an episode of excessive catecholamine release.
Postural Changes: Rapid changes in position (such as standing up quickly) can sometimes provoke symptoms of a crisis.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels can cause a reflex increase in catecholamine production, potentially triggering a crisis in individuals with a pheochromocytoma.
Pregnancy or Labor: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly during labor and delivery, can increase the risk of a pheochromocytoma crisis.

Types Of Pheochromocytoma Crisis

Pheochromocytoma crisis refers to a sudden, severe episode of symptoms due to the release of excess catecholamines (like adrenaline) from a pheochromocytoma tumor, which can lead to a life-threatening situation. The main types include:

Hypertensive Crisis: This is the most common type and involves a sudden, severe increase in blood pressure, often associated with symptoms like headache, sweating, palpitations, and anxiety. It can lead to complications like stroke, heart attack, or organ damage.
Hypotensive Crisis: In some cases, the excessive release of catecholamines may lead to a drop in blood pressure, causing symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or shock. This is less common but can be dangerous if not treated promptly.
Cardiac Crisis: Severe cardiovascular symptoms such as arrhythmias, chest pain, and heart failure can occur due to the excessive release of catecholamines affecting heart function. This type of crisis can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical intervention.
Mixed Crisis: This type involves a combination of hypertensive and hypotensive episodes, leading to fluctuating blood pressure and potentially severe symptoms like confusion, organ failure, or cardiovascular collapse.

Risk Factors

Pheochromocytoma crisis can be triggered by various factors that increase the secretion of catecholamines, leading to life-threatening symptoms. Here are the risk factors for a pheochromocytoma crisis:

Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure: Individuals with chronic hypertension are more likely to experience a crisis due to the elevated levels of catecholamines in the bloodstream.
Emotional Stress: Anxiety, emotional stress, or significant psychological strain can trigger a crisis by stimulating the adrenal glands to release excess catecholamines.
Physical Stress: Physical exertion, strenuous exercise, or trauma can increase the release of catecholamines, increasing the risk of a crisis.
Certain Medications: Medications like beta-blockers, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) can precipitate a crisis in individuals with pheochromocytoma.
Surgery or Anesthesia: Surgical procedures, especially those involving the adrenal glands or abdomen, as well as the use of anesthesia, can stimulate the release of catecholamines.
Genetic Conditions: Having inherited conditions such as MEN 2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2) or Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome significantly increases the risk of developing pheochromocytoma and experiencing a crisis.
Tyramine-Rich Foods: Foods rich in tyramine (e.g., aged cheeses, cured meats) can trigger the release of catecholamines and increase the risk of a crisis.
Alcohol and Illicit Drugs: Consumption of alcohol and certain illicit drugs can exacerbate symptoms by stimulating catecholamine release.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Pheochromocytoma Crisis

Blood and urine tests can help measure levels of catecholamines and metanephrines, which are often elevated in this condition. Imaging studies like CT scans or MRI can locate the tumor causing the crisis.

Additionally, tests like a MIBG scan or genetic testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to promptly recognize and diagnose a Pheochromocytoma Crisis to initiate appropriate treatment and prevent potentially life-threatening complications.

Treatment for Pheochromocytoma Crisis

Treatment options typically involve a combination of medications to control blood pressure and heart rate, such as alpha-blockers, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Intravenous fluids are often administered to support blood volume and help normalize blood pressure. In severe cases, surgery to remove the tumor causing the crisis may be necessary.

Close monitoring in an intensive care setting is essential to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and prevent complications. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals is key to managing Pheochromocytoma Crisis effectively and promoting the patient's recovery.

Find Our Specialists

Book Doctor Appointment

Name*

Mobile Number*

I agree to the Medicover Privacy Policy

International Patient Services

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I recognize the signs of Pheochromocytoma Crisis?

Symptoms may include severe headache, palpitations, sweating, and high blood pressure. Prompt medical attention is crucial in Pheochromocytoma Crisis.

What lifestyle changes should I make to manage Pheochromocytoma Crisis effectively?

For managing Pheochromocytoma Crisis, lifestyle changes include reducing stress, avoiding triggers like certain medications or foods, and maintaining a healthy diet low in caffeine and high in sodium.