Pheochromocytoma

[shannonwooten]

Pheochromocytoma is a really rare cancer... I was wondering if anyone has known someone with this type of cancer, or had it themselves.

My mother passed of it when I was 2. I have done some research on it but it would be nice to speak to someone who has experience with it.

Thanks,
Shannon

[DebM412]

I have never heard of this cancer. What kind is it and where does it usually present itself?

Debbie

[shannonwooten]

Pheochromocytomas are tumors of the adrenal glands. As the name implies the ad-renal glands are located near the “renal” area. In other words, the adrenal glands are little glands that basically sit on top of the kidneys. One adrenal gland sits on top of each of the two kidneys.

I copied this from:
http://www.medicinenet.com/pheochromocytoma/article.htm

[sec29]

Shannon,

Doctors are in the process of ruling out pheo for me.  I most likely don't have it (metanephrines/catecholamines/VMA in 24 urine collection, plasma free metanephrines all normal.  MDs now following up with abdominal MRI ), but I've learned quite a bit about it since it was brought up as a possibility.

I'm very sorry for your loss, especially since what I've read suggests that it is very rarely fatal.  Your mother must have been one of the unfortunate few in whom it metastisized.

If you'd like to speak to someone who has experienced it first hand, I'd recommend you go to www.pheochromocytoma.org where they have a link to a message board that is specifically all about pheo.


Good luck,
Stella

[shannonwooten]

I can't believe I never found this site... after all the places that I have looked and all!


Thank you so very much!

I'll keep you in my thoughts... I hope that they can rule out pheo for you.