Understanding Pheochromocytoma

A pheochromocytoma is a tumor located inside the central part of the adrenal gland called the adrenal medulla. The adrenal medulla is responsible for secretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine (also known as adrenaline/noradrenaline). 

These are most commonly known as your ‘fight or flight’ hormones which cause your blood pressure and heart rate to increase during a ‘take action’ moment. The cause of pheochromocytomas is not known but evidence points at a genetic predisposition.