Table of Contents
What is the best imaging for pheochromocytoma?
CT is the most common imaging method used in the diagnosis of pheochromocytomas. Compared to MRI, it is more widely available, less expensive, and offers better spatial resolution. The main disadvantage of CT is ionizing radiation.
Does pheochromocytoma show up on MRI?
The most common MR imaging appearance of pheochromocytoma is a mass with low signal intensity at T1-weighted imaging and with high signal intensity at T2-weighted imaging (,,,Fig 10). Pheochromocytomas commonly enhance avidly at T1-weighted imaging after administration of gadolinium-based contrast material (,21,,22).
How do you screen for pheochromocytoma?
These tests may include:
- CT scan, a specialized X-ray technology.
- MRI , which uses radio waves and a magnetic field to produce detailed images.
- M-iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) imaging, a scanning technology that can detect tiny amounts of an injected radioactive compound taken up by pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas.
How is malignant pheochromocytoma diagnosed?
The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma is often made by testing urine catecholamines or plasma-free metanephrines. Plasma-free metanephrines have a 96% diagnostic sensitivity and 85% diagnostic sensitivity for pheochromocytoma. 3 If not already performed, imaging is used for localization.
Why is biopsy contraindicated in pheochromocytoma?
However, a tumor suspected to be a pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma should not have a biopsy, unless it is absolutely necessary to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy of these tumors can cause a serious and even life-threatening release of catecholamines.
Is pheochromocytoma hard to diagnose?
Diagnosing pheochromocytoma can be difficult, as it is rare and affects different people in different ways. A person with any of the following should undergo testing to rule out or confirm pheochromocytoma: episodes of high blood pressure or constant high blood pressure.
Should you biopsy pheochromocytoma?
What does pheochromocytoma look like on CT scan?
Pheochromocytomas can have a variable appearance ranging from solid to mixed cystic and solid to cystic 9. CT is the first imaging modality to be used, with an overall sensitivity of 89%. This is on account of 98% of tumors being located within the abdomen and 90% limited to the adrenal glands 6.
What is the sensitivity of MRI in the diagnosis of phaeochromocytoma?
MRI is the most sensitive modality for identification of phaeochromocytomas and is particularly useful in cases of extra-adrenal location. The overall sensitivity is said to be 98% 6. T1 slightly hypointense to the remainder of the adrenal. if necrotic and/or hemorrhagic then signal will be more heterogeneous.
What is the best modality for the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma?
MRI MRI is the most sensitive modality for identification of pheochromocytomas and is particularly useful in cases of extra-adrenal location. The overall sensitivity is said to be 98% 6. T1
Is contrast media safe in patients with pheochromocytoma?
This result was replicated by another study providing evidence that the administration of iodinated non-ionic contrast media in patients with a suspected or known pheochromocytoma is safe, and the administration of α-adrenergic receptor blockers before the administration of the contrast medium is not necessary (44). Magnetic resonance imaging