Pheochromocytoma

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses pheochromocytoma, a rare cancer in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in special cells in the body called chromaffin cells. It discusses the epidemiology and pathophysiology of the disease. The paper then goes on to discuss treatment options for pheochromocytoma, including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Table of Contents:
Epidemiology
Pathophysiology
Treatment
Nursing and Collaborative Care

From the Paper:

"According to the Medical Surgical Nursing, sympathetic blocking agents are administered to reduce the blood pressure postoperatively and alleviate other symptoms of catecholamine excess. Since this management may result in orthostatic hypotension, the patient must be advised to make postural changes cautiously. Calcium channel blockers may be used to treat the hypertension and avoid the orthostatic hypotension in patients with cardiovascular disease. If surgery is not an option, Demser is used to diminish catecholamine production by the tumor and simplify chronic management."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Banitt, P.F. (2004). Pheochromocytoma and myocardial infarction. Southern Medical Journal, Retrieved November 26, 2006, from http://www.highbeam.com
• Gavaghan, M. (1997). Surgical treatment of pheochromocytomas. AORN Journal, Retrieved November 26, 2006, from http://www.highbeam.com
• Lemone, P., & Burke, K. (2004). Medical Surgical Nursing (3rd ed., pp.467, 993) New Jersey: Pearson Education
• Nettina, S.M. (2001). Manual of Nursing Practice (7th ed., pp. 811, 836) Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
• Pheochromocytoma (08/05/2005). Retrieved September 24, 2006, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pheochromocytoma/DS00569

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