What rare but serious condition results from excess catecholamine release and is characterized by paroxysmal or sustained hypertension?

Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor, usually found in the adrenal glands, that secretes excessive amounts of catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine. This overproduction leads to paroxysmal or sustained episodes of hypertension, which are significant increases in blood pressure that can occur abruptly and may be accompanied by symptoms such as headaches, sweating, and palpitations. The catecholamines stimulate the adrenergic receptors, leading to vasoconstriction and increased cardiac output, which in turn results in the hypertensive episodes that define this condition.

Understanding pheochromocytoma is important in clinical practice, particularly because the hypertension associated with it can be challenging to manage and can lead to significant cardiovascular complications if not recognized and treated appropriately. Identifying this condition requires a high index of suspicion, especially in patients presenting with unexplained hypertension or those who have episodic symptoms suggestive of catecholamine release. Timely diagnosis often involves imaging studies and biochemical testing to measure catecholamine metabolites, which supports the diagnosis and guides treatment options. Surgical removal of the tumor is typically the definitive treatment for pheochromocytoma.