Which is the most common symptom related to pheochromocytoma?

Which is the most common symptom related to pheochromocytoma?

• A. Pyuresis
• B. Nausea and vomiting
• C. Anxiety
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (D)

Pheochromocytoma causes excessive release of catecholamines, leading to sympathetic overdrive. This overactivity most frequently presents as hypertension because norepinephrine causes vasoconstriction and epinephrine increases heart rate and cardiac output. Patients may also experience headaches, sweating, and palpitations, and symptoms can occur in episodes, but elevated blood pressure is what is most commonly observed. While nausea, vomiting, or anxiety can occur, they are not the defining feature. Therefore, hypertension is the best answer.

Pheochromocytoma causes excessive release of catecholamines, leading to sympathetic overdrive. This overactivity most frequently presents as hypertension because norepinephrine causes vasoconstriction and epinephrine increases heart rate and cardiac output. Patients may also experience headaches, sweating, and palpitations, and symptoms can occur in episodes, but elevated blood pressure is what is most commonly observed. While nausea, vomiting, or anxiety can occur, they are not the defining feature. Therefore, hypertension is the best answer.