Tests for equivocal cases of pheochromocytoma

Tests for equivocal cases of pheochromocytoma

What tests should be performed in equivocal cases of pheochromocytoma?

A number of pharmacologic tests can be performed but usually are not necessary.

Tests for Pheochromocytoma

TESTRATIONALE
Regitine ® (phentolamine) testPhentolamine is an alpha-blocker, and a reduction in blood pressure after its intravenous administration suggests a catecholamine excess. The test is neither sensitive nor specific
Histamine testThis old test is seldom performed today because it is neither sensitive nor specific and can be dangerous
Glucagon stimulation testGlucagon stimulates catecholamine release and raises blood pressure and pulse rate in a patient with a pheochromocytoma. The risk of precipitating a hypertensive crisis can be blocked by prior administration of an alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist
Clonidine suppression testClonidine decreases central sympathetic outflow in normal or nervous subjects, but does not suppress autonomous catecholamine production by a tumor. Failure to suppress plasma norepinephrine by more than 50%, and into the normal range, within 2–3 h after administration of an appropriate dose ( 0.2–0.3 mg ) of clonidine is highly suggestive of a pheochromocytoma
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