Principales pautas en el diagnóstico y tratamiento del feocromocitoma

Abstract

Introduction: Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor derived from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal gland, characterized by the excessive release of catecholamines, which cause hypertension and cardiovascular degenerative effects. Genetics has a close relationship in its development, which can be caused by inherited or sporadic mutations of specific genes. Its annual incidence is 2 to 9 per 1 million individuals, and its prevalence is recorded as 2.12 per 100,000 people, without preference towards a specific gender or age. Surgery is the main treatment for pheochromocytoma. Exclusively experienced surgeons and anesthesiologists are responsible for carrying out the surgical procedure. In Ecuador, there are no official records that show cases of pheochromocytoma, however, it is important to expose its clinical relevance, because its diagnosis usually goes unnoticed. Objective: To review the guidelines of the diagnostic and therapeutic approach for pheochromocytoma, through a bibliographic review, which allows the updating of information for its use in teaching and hospital care processes. Methodology: The study is qualitative-descriptive in nature, based on the bibliographic review of scientific research from the last five years, on platforms such as PubMed, LILACS and Medscape. Conclusion: The timely diagnosis of pheochromocytoma contributes to increasing the possibilities of effective treatment; therefore, the constant updating of its main guidelines is essential for diagnosis and treatment, constituting a challenge for health professionals, due to the complexity of interpreting its signs and symptoms.