What is the workup for pheochromocytoma?
Computed tomography (CT) scanning or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for detection of the disorder. Scintigraphy may be used when these techniques fail to localize the tumor. Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning has shown promising results as an imaging modality for pheochromocytoma.
What tests are done for pheochromocytoma?
The tests of choice to establish the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma are urinary normetanephrine and platelet norepinephrine. A combination of 131I-MIBG scintigraphy and diagnostic tests in urine, blood, or platelets does further improve the sensitivity.
What do you expect the doctor will order to confirm a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma?
If the lab test results suggest the presence of a pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma, your doctor will likely order one or more imaging tests to locate a possible tumor. These tests may include: CT scan, a specialized X-ray technology. MRI , which uses radio waves and a magnetic field to produce detailed images.
What is metanephrines test for?
The plasma free metanephrines test is used to help diagnose or rule out the presence of a rare tumor called a pheochromocytoma or a paraganglioma (PPGL) that releases excess metanephrines. Testing also may be used when a tumor has been treated or removed to monitor for recurrence.
Can a pheochromocytoma be missed on a CT scan?
Pheochromocytomas appear on scintigrams as focal increased concentrations of radioactivity in the adrenal medulla but also in ectopic adrenergic tissue or metastases (Fig. 5). Paragangliomas can easily be missed on CT and MRI scans.
Can you have pheochromocytoma with normal metanephrines?
Conclusions: Normal plasma concentrations of metanephrines exclude the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, whereas normal plasma concentrations of catecholamines and normal urinary excretion of metanephrines do not.
Can a pheochromocytoma be seen on xray?
Doctors have a number of options when they order scans or x-rays to look for the presence of a pheochromocytoma within the adrenal gland. These imaging choices include: Ultrasound, CT scans, MRI scans and Nuclear Medicine scans (MIBG, PET scans, etc).
What type of CT is used for pheochromocytoma?
2). Although strong enhancement occurs in most pheochromocytomas, it cannot be considered specific, since there is significant overlap of contrast enhancement with other types of adrenal lesions (29); only a single article has reported significant differences in the enhancement of adenomas and pheochromocytomas (38).