PHAEOCHROMOCYTOMA Meaning and
Definition
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Phaeochromocytoma is a rare, usually non-cancerous tumor that forms in the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. It arises from neuroendocrine cells that produce adrenaline and noradrenaline, hormones involved in regulating blood pressure and the body's response to stress. This condition primarily affects adults, with an average age of onset between 30 and 50 years old.
The tumor typically develops within the medulla, the innermost part of the adrenal gland, and can increase the production and release of excessive amounts of adrenaline and noradrenaline into the bloodstream. This overproduction can cause episodes of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, which may be intermittent or persistent depending on the individual. Symptoms may include rapid or irregular heart rate, severe headaches, excessive sweating, anxiety, tremors, and intense bouts of high blood pressure.
If left untreated, phaeochromocytoma can lead to serious complications such as heart problems, stroke, or organ damage. Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels, along with imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to locate and visualize the tumor.
Treatment options for phaeochromocytoma often involve surgical removal of the tumor, known as adrenalectomy. Before surgery, medications called alpha or beta blockers may be prescribed to stabilize blood pressure and heart rate. Genetic testing and regular follow-ups are essential for patients with this condition, as some cases may be hereditary.
In summary, phaeochromocytoma is a rare adrenal tumor that produces excessive amounts of adrenaline and noradrenaline, leading to episodes of hypertension and other associated symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial in managing this condition effectively.
Common Misspellings for PHAEOCHROMOCYTOMA
- ohaeochromocytoma
- lhaeochromocytoma
- -haeochromocytoma
- 0haeochromocytoma
- pgaeochromocytoma
- pbaeochromocytoma
- pnaeochromocytoma
- pjaeochromocytoma
- puaeochromocytoma
- pyaeochromocytoma
- phzeochromocytoma
- phseochromocytoma
- phweochromocytoma
- phqeochromocytoma
- phawochromocytoma
- phasochromocytoma
- phadochromocytoma
- pharochromocytoma
- pha4ochromocytoma
Etymology of PHAEOCHROMOCYTOMA
The word "phaeochromocytoma" originates from Greek and is composed of several parts:
1. "phaios" (φαιος): meaning "dark" or "dusky"
2. "chroma" (χρωμα): meaning "color"
3. "kytos" (κυτος): meaning "cell"
4. "oma" (ωμα): a suffix indicating a tumor or mass
"Phaeochromocytoma" specifically refers to a tumor that originates in the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla, which are responsible for producing hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline. The term describes the dark-colored appearance of these tumor cells when examined under a microscope, due to the presence of pigment-like substances.
Similar spelling word for PHAEOCHROMOCYTOMA
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