[Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma]

Pheochromocytoma and functional paraganglioma (PH/PGL) are classical causes of secondary hypertension. The clinical practice guidelines for PH/PGL have been changed by the recent identification of a dozen of susceptibility genes. PH/PGL is the neuroendocrine tumor most affected by genetics. Total metanephrin should be measured in every young patient suffering of a resistant hypertension. The diagnosis is based on conventional imaging assciated with nuclear imaging. Genetic testing should be offered to every patient diagnosed for PH/PGL because the identification of a germline mutation, which is found in over 30% of the cases, will change his work-up and follow-up as well as offer the opportunity of a familial genetic testing in relatives. A specialized management is indicated, especially for patients with hereditary or metastatic PH/PGL, and should be performed in an expert center with a multidisciplinary team.