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Malignant pheochromocytoma: a review.
Avital Harari1, William B Inabnet
1Department of Surgery, Division of Endocrine Surgery of University of California, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA. avitalharari@gmail.com
American Journal of Surgery
|September 28, 2010
Summary
Predicting malignant potential in pheochromocytomas remains challenging. This review explores current knowledge and diagnostic indicators for malignant pheochromocytoma, aiding in early identification.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Pheochromocytomas are rare tumors that secrete catecholamines.
- Approximately 10% of pheochromocytomas are malignant.
- Predicting malignancy in pheochromocytoma has historically been difficult.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current information on malignant pheochromocytomas.
- To identify potential indicators for predicting malignant potential.
- To discuss advancements in differentiating malignant from benign tumors.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of the PubMed database.
- Inclusion of articles published between 1993 and 2010.
- Focus on studies related to malignant pheochromocytoma.
Main Results:
- No definitive method currently exists to predict malignant potential.
- Several indicators for malignant pheochromocytoma have been identified.
- Current research focuses on differentiating tumor types at diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Predicting malignant potential of pheochromocytoma is an ongoing challenge.
- The review provides insights into potential diagnostic markers.
- An algorithm is proposed, but larger studies are needed to establish a standard of care.
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