A pheochromocytoma (fee-o- kroe-moe- sy-toe- muh) is a less common, usually slow-growing, neuroendocrine tumor that develops in cells in the center of an adrenal gland called the adrenal medulla. These two adrenal glands, one above each kidney, produce hormones that give instructions to virtually every organ and tissue in the body. The adrenal medulla controls hormones that initiate the flight or fight response.
Pheochromocytomas produce an excess amount of catecholamines, hormones which include norepinephrine (noradrenaline), epinephrine (adrenaline), and dopamine. The release of catecholamines can cause persistent or episodic high blood pressure, headache, sweating and other symptoms. If left untreated, a pheochromocytoma can result in severe or life-threatening damage to other body systems, especially the cardiovascular system.