Diagnosing Pheochromocytoma

When diagnosing pheochromocytoma, a doctor may perform a physical exam and ask about a patient's personal and medical history. Tests that help in diagnosing pheochromocytoma include blood and urine tests, CT scans, MRIs, and nuclear medicine scans.

 

Diagnosing Pheochromocytoma: An Introduction

If a person has possible pheochromocytoma symptoms, the doctor may do a physical exam and ask about the patient's personal and family medical history. A doctor diagnosing pheochromocytoma will also usually recommend additional tests or procedures.
 

Diagnosing Pheochromocytoma: Physical Exam and History

During the physical exam, the doctor feels for any lumps or bumps. Healthcare providers will also take and review a history of the patient's health habits, family history of any medical conditions, and past illnesses.
 

Diagnosing Pheochromocytoma: Exams and Tests

Exams and tests that may help in making a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma may include the following:
 
  • Blood and urine tests
  • CT scans
  • MRIs
  • Nuclear medicine scans (MIBG scans).
     
Blood and Urine Tests
Urine tests look for extra catecholamines (including adrenaline) or its breakdown products in the urine. Blood tests look for extra hormones in the blood.
 
CT Scan (CAT Scan)
A CT scan is a procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
(Diagnosing Pheochromocytoma Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD