Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Pheochromocytoma


Overview

Pheochromocytomas develop in the small glands on top of the kidneys (adrenal glands). They most commonly affect people between the ages of 20 and 50 but can occur at any age.

Symptoms

Symptoms include sweating, rapid heartbeat and headache.

Treatments

Untreated, the condition can severely damage the cardiovascular system, brain and kidneys. Surgical treatment to remove the tumor usually helps control blood pressure.