[Familial forms of chromaffinomas]

The familial chromaffinoma forms were seen in 13 members of 4 families. Eight of these patients (6 females and 2 males), aged 15 to 43 years old, were operated for disseminated bilateral chromaffinomas. Seven patients had malignant tumors. In 3 families there were patients with Sipple's syndrome. Extensive laparatomy is rather preferential by surgeons. In view of the autosomal-dominant form of the disease transmission it is necessary to investigate thoroughly the familial history and to examine purposefully the children and relatives of patients with chromaffinomas, especially, with Sipple's syndrome.