Familial pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas.
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are neural crest cell tumors of the adrenal medulla and parasympathetic/sympathetic ganglia, respectively, that are often associated with catecholamine production. Genetic research over the years has led to our current understanding of the association 13 susceptibility genes with the development of these tumors. Most of the susceptibility genes are now associated with specific clinical presentations, biochemical makeup, tumor location, and associated neoplasms. Recent scientific advances have highlighted the role of somatic mutations in the development of pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma as well as the usefulness of immunohistochemistry in triaging genetic testing. We can now approach genetic testing in pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma patients in a very organized scientific way allowing for the reduction of both the financial and emotional burden on the patient. The discovery of genetic predispositions to the development of pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma not only facilitates better understanding of these tumors but will also lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Kathryn S
KS
King
Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. Electronic address: karel@mail.nih.gov.
Karel
K
Pacak
D000310:Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D010235:Paraganglioma / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology; D010673:Pheochromocytoma / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology
D009363:Neoplasm Proteins
MEN2; NF1; Paraganglioma; Pheochromocytoma; SDHA; VHL