What is the workup for pheochromocytoma?
Computed tomography (CT) scanning or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for detection of the disorder. Scintigraphy may be used when these techniques fail to localize the tumor. Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning has shown promising results as an imaging modality for pheochromocytoma.
What test is confirmatory of pheochromocytoma?
The most commonly ordered blood test for pheochromocytoma is the plasma free metanephrine test. Though more convenient to obtain than a 24-hour urine collection, plasma free metanephrine testing is plagued by frequent false positive results.
What are the differential diagnosis for pheochromocytoma?
Pheochromocytoma must be differentiated from other causes of paroxysmal hypertension including severe paroxysmal hypertension (pseudopheochromocytoma), panic disorder, factitious hypertension, carcinoid syndrome, migraine headache, hyperthyroidism, renovascular hypertension, hypoglycemia, labile hypertension (White …
Which of the following nuclear medicine examinations is used to diagnose pheochromocytoma?
Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan. A computer combines these pictures into a detailed, 3-dimensional image that shows any abnormalities or tumor. A CT scan can be used to measure the tumor’s size.
Which one of the following is the most sensitive laboratory test for detecting pheochromocytoma?
Recent studies have indicated that urine total metanephrines is the most sensitive laboratory test for pheochromocytoma.
Which is a priority when caring for a patient with a pheochromocytoma?
What is the treatment for a pheochromocytoma? Surgery is the definitive treatment. Until the tumor is removed, control of blood pressure is a top priority. Controlling blood pressure before and during surgery is the trickiest part of care.
What is the most sensitive test for pheochromocytoma?
Biochemical diagnosis of pheochromocytoma is traditionally performed by examining plasma and total urinary levels of catecholamines and their metabolites over 24 hours. Recent studies have indicated that urine total metanephrines is the most sensitive laboratory test for pheochromocytoma.
What is Vanillylmandelic acid test?
The vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) test is primarily used to detect and rule out tumors called neuroblastomas in children with an abdominal mass or other symptoms suggestive of the disease.
What is a Metanephrines plasma test for?
The plasma free metanephrines test is used to help diagnose or rule out the presence of a rare tumor called a pheochromocytoma or a paraganglioma (PPGL) that releases excess metanephrines. Testing also may be used when a tumor has been treated or removed to monitor for recurrence.
Can a pheochromocytoma be seen on xray?
Doctors have a number of options when they order scans or x-rays to look for the presence of a pheochromocytoma within the adrenal gland. These imaging choices include: Ultrasound, CT scans, MRI scans and Nuclear Medicine scans (MIBG, PET scans, etc).
What is eosinophilia and how is it diagnosed?
With automated differentials being a common part of routine blood counts, the finding of eosinophilia is a relatively frequent occurrence. The first step in elucidating the cause is to determine the absolute eosinophil count (AEC), which is calculated from multiplying the percentage of eosinophils by the total white blood cell count.
What is a pheochromocytoma?
Pheochromocytomas are a type of paraganglioma . They are catecholamine-secreting tumors derived from chromaffin cells. They typically demonstrate a nesting (Zellballen) pattern on microscopy. This pattern is composed of well-defined clusters of tumor cells containing eosinophilic cytoplasm separated by a fibrovascular stroma.
What tests are used to diagnose pheochromocytoma?
Blood Testing, Urine Testing, and Laboratory Testing for Pheochromocytoma Diagnosis. There are very specific blood and urine tests that are requried to test for and diagnose pheochromocytoma.
What are the chemotactic agents of eosinophilia?
. Such substances include eosinophil chemotactic factor of anaphylaxis, leukotriene B4, complement complex (C5-C6-C7), and histamine (over a narrow range of concentration). Mild eosinophilia itself does not cause symptoms, but levels ≥ 1500/mcL (> 1.5 × 10 9 /L) may cause organ damage if they persist.