Recent advances in the surgical management of pheochromocytoma

Improvements in biochemical assays, radiographic imaging, and perioperative monitoring; the availability of selective adrenergic blockers; and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease have all contributed to the reduction in mortality and morbidity in patients with pheochromocytomas. Twenty-four-hour urinary catecholamines are more reliable than blood levels in detecting pheochromocytomas. The diagnosis may be confirmed by elevated epinephrine fractions when total catecholamine levels are normal. Computerized tomography is the preferred imaging tool, although ultrasound and magnetic resonance are preferred during pregnancy. 131I iobenguane scanning is useful in locating extra-adrenal disease and may have a role in the treatment of metastases. Total alpha-adrenergic blockade with phenoxybenzamine versus selective (alpha 1) blockage with prazosin are equally effective preoperatively. Invasive monitoring is necessary in all patients, and agents to control arrhythmias, hypertension, hypotension, and cardiac arrest are prepared in advance. Patients with benign lesions have an excellent cure rate, and those with malignancies have effective palliation of their symptoms.