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What is the rationale for the laboratory workup for suspected pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas?

Hiba Z. Hashmi, MD, Muhammad Arslan Arif Maan, MD and Laura LaFave, MD
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine March 2023, 90 (3) 150-153; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3949/ccjm.90a.20197

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Tables

  • TABLE 1

    Symptoms of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas

    Most frequentMost specific (classic triad)Less frequent
    PalpitationsPalpitationsAnxiety or panic
    HyperhidrosisHyperhidrosisWeight loss
    TremorsHeadachesFatigue
    PallorConstipation
    Nausea

    • Based on information in references 3 and 4.

  • TABLE 2

    Medications associated with false-positive screening tests

    ClassName
    AntihypertensiveBeta-blocker (labetalol, sotalol)
    Alpha-2 agonist (alpha-methyldopa)
    Alpha-2 antagonist (phenoxybenzamine)
    Alpha, beta-1, beta-2 agonist (ephedrine)
    Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridines)
    StimulantCaffeine
    Nicotine
    Amphetamine
    Cocaine
    AnxiolyticBuspirinone
    AnalgesicAcetaminophen
    Anti-inflammatorySulfasalazine
    AntidepressantTricyclic antidepressants
    Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
    Dopamine agonistLevodopa

    • Based on information in references 3 and 4.

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