Screening For Pheochromocytoma Research Articles

Perioperative management of patients with glioblastoma copresenting with pheochromocytoma: illustrative case.

Undiagnosed pheochromocytoma can present with hemodynamic instability during surgical procedures. Here, the authors discuss a 69-year-old male with isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype glioblastoma copresenting with undiagnosed pheochromocytoma, which, to the authors' knowledge, is the second reported case in the literature. The patient presented to the emergency department with a 1-month history of coordination difficulties, progressive morning headache, and mild left-side weakness. Imaging showed a 5-cm peripherally enhancing intra-axial right parietal mass with surrounding vasogenic edema. Intraoperatively, the patient had significant uncontrollable hypertension up to 240/120 mm Hg, and the operation was promptly aborted. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography imaging of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis identified a 4.9-cm left adrenal mass of indeterminant etiology. Endocrinology diagnosed the incidentaloma as a pheochromocytoma, initiating alpha blockade followed by beta blockade, and the urology service performed a laparoscopic adrenalectomy after patient stabilization. The neurosurgery service removed the intra-axial brain lesion 2 days after adrenalectomy, which was diagnosed as IDH-wildtype glioblastoma. The patient was discharged home after 6 days in stable condition. This case highlights the importance of preoperative screening for pheochromocytoma in neurosurgical patients with adrenal incidentalomas, especially in incidentalomas > 4 cm, even without high clinical suspicion. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE24374.

8563 Pheochromocytoma Screening In A Patient With Neurofibromatosis Type I And Medication-Resistant Hypertension

Abstract Disclosure: E. Mora: None. A. Bolduc, MD: None. G. Elshimy: None. Title: Pheochromocytoma Screening in a Patient With Neurofibromatosis Type I and Medication-Resistant Hypertension Background: Patients with neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) have a higher risk of pheochromocytoma and it may be missed if no screening done, thus placing the patient at risk of stroke and/or myocardial infarction. The prevalence of pheochromocytoma in patients with NF1 is 2.9% according to a retrospective cohort study by Gruber et al. We present a case of biochemically silent pheochromocytoma in a patient with NF1 and resistant hypertension Clinical case: A 74-year woman with NF1 presented with episodic headaches and labile systolic blood pressure (BP) in the 170-200s mm Hg on three different antihypertensives consistent with pheochromocytoma. Initial tests for renal artery stenosis and pheochromocytoma showed normal plasma MN (0.43 nmol/L, n< 0.50 nmol/L) and NM (0.86 nmol/L, n< 0.90 nmol/L), and normal flow in both renal hila by color Doppler and no large suprarenal masses identified on retroperitoneal US. Duplex imaging of the bilateral kidneys showed no evidence of renal artery stenosis. CT of abdomen/pelvis with and without IV contrast showed a 1.6 cm nodule on Right (RT) adrenal gland that measured 36 HU on unenhanced phase with an absolute washout of 67%. No discrete nodule in Lt adrenal gland. Dotatate PET/CT revealed a Rt adrenal nodule with elevated asymmetric activity (measured 28.1 standardized uptake values (SUV), n for liver: max 12.3, spleen: max 23.5) relative to the normal physiologic activity of the Leftt adrenal gland, which is concerning for pheochromocytoma. The patient was then referred to our endocrine clinic for further evaluation 6 months after the initial presentation. Labs showed normal aldosterone (5.8 ng/dL, n≤39.2 ng/dL), cortisol (7.66 mcg/dL, n: 3.09-22.40 mcg/dL), ACTH (20 pg/mL, n: 7.2-63 (AM collection), and DHEA-S (28 mcg/dL, n:5.3-124 mcg/dL). Normal repeat plasma MN (0.38 nmol/L, n< 0.50 nmol/L) and NM (0.46 nmol/L, n< 0.90 nmol/L). Repeat CT adrenal washout redemonstrated 1.4 cm Rt adrenal nodule that measured 39 HU on non- contrast image with an absolute washout of 68%. Patient will have a surgical resection of the Rt adrenal biochemically silent pheochromocytoma next week and she has been receiving an alpha-blocker prior to surgery to decrease risk for labile BP. Discussion and Conclusion: This case illustrates how CT and DOtatate scan findings can alert providers to the presence of a pheochromocytoma, even in biochemically negative patients. We recommend pheochromocytoma screening in all patients with NF1 to prevent delayed diagnosis and complications of untreated pheochromocytoma. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Impact of systematic screening of pheochromocytoma in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

Impact of systematic screening of pheochromocytoma in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

A Narrative Review of Pheochromocytoma in VHL.

This systematic review aims to investigate the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and management strategies for pheochromocytoma in patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, an autosomal dominant disorder that predisposes individuals to the development of various tumors, including pheochromocytomas. Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the adrenal medulla that occurs sporadically or as part of an inherited syndrome. The incidence of pheochromocytoma in VHL patients is estimated to be between 10-20%, making it the second most common tumor associated with VHL. Early detection and management of pheochromocytoma in VHL patients are critical for patient outcomes, as these tumors can cause severe hypertension, cardiovascular complications, and death. This review highlights the importance of screening for pheochromocytoma in VHL patients and discusses the current diagnostic and management strategies to optimize patient care.

FRI205 Splenic Infarct: A Rare Presentation Of Cushing Syndrome

Abstract Disclosure: G. Virella: None. Splenic Infarct: A Rare Presentation of Cushing Syndrome Geover, Virella M.D. 1,2, Carlos Santiago Botero Suarez, M.D.1,2, Alfredo Palomino Abella, M.D. 1,2, Mustafa Kinaan, M.D. 1,2 1) University of Central Florida HCA Healthcare GME, Greater Orlando, Florida2) Department of Internal Medicine, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida Disclaimer: This research was supported (in whole or in part) by HCA Healthcare and/or an HCA Healthcare affiliated entity. The views expressed in this publication represent those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of HCA Healthcare or any of its affiliated entities.Introduction Cushing’s syndrome (CS) is associated with a hypercoagulable state leading to increased incidence of thromboembolic events. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is due to an imbalance between activity of pro- and anticoagulant pathways. We report a case of newly diagnosed CS in a patient presenting with acute splenic and inferior vena cava (IVC) infarcts. Case Description A 59-year-old woman with no significant medical history presents with acute left upper quadrant pain. She denied other symptoms. Physical examination was remarkable for tachycardia, left upper quadrant tenderness, and centripetal adiposity with BMI of 19. Labs showed marked leukocytosis (WBC 26 x 109/L) and thrombocytopenia (platelet 96,000 cells/uL). She was also found to be diabetic (HgA1C 12.5%). Abdominal CT imaging showed a wedge-shaped 4.3 x 3.1 x 2.3 cm splenic infarction, peri-splenic abscess, and thrombosis of the left renal and gonadal veins extending into the IVC. Additionally, there was a left adrenal incidentaloma measuring 4.5 x 3.8 x 2.9 cm. MRI of the left adrenal gland was consistent with an adenoma. The right adrenal gland was unremarkable. Screening for pheochromocytoma and hyperaldosteronism was normal. A morning serum cortisol was 33.4 mcg/dL, and ACTH level of < 1.5 pg/mL. An overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test revealed post-dexamethasone cortisol of 4.58 mcg/dL. These findings were consistent with Cushing syndrome secondary to adrenal cause. The patient was initially treated with heparin infusion and underwent a successful thrombectomy of the IVC and gonadal vein. She later underwent a successful laparoscopic left adrenalectomy and splenectomy. Pathology reports confirmed an adrenocortical adenoma. A random post-surgical cortisol was 22.8. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged home with outpatient endocrine follow-up planned to evaluate for hypercortisolism resolution and management of diabetes. Conclusion Cushing Syndrome patients have been shown to have an almost 18-fold higher rate of venous thromboembolism (VTE). This is an often-overlooked complication of hypercortisolism. The pathogenesis is not fully understood but is believed to be related to shortening of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), increased clot lysis time, and glucocorticoid-induced increase in procoagulant factors such as fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor, and factor VIII. Our case will closely demonstrate the link between hypercortisolism and hypercoagulability. Presentation: Friday, June 16, 2023

Prevalence of Endocrine Manifestations and GIST in 108 Systematically Screened Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 1.

In patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), guidelines suggest screening for pheochromocytoma by metanephrine measurement and abdominal imaging, which may lead to the discovery of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) and their differential diagnosis, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Other endocrine manifestations such as follicular thyroid carcinoma and primary hyperparathyroidism have also been reported in a few cases. This study aimed to describe prevalence and clinical presentation of these manifestations through systematic screening in a large cohort of patients. In this monocentric retrospective study, 108 patients with NF1 were included and screened for endocrine manifestations and GISTs. Clinical, laboratory, molecular profile, pathology, and morphologic (abdominal computed tomography scan and/or magnetic resonance imaging) and functional imaging were collected. Twenty-four patients (22.2% of the cohort, 16 female, mean age 42.6 years) presented with pheochromocytomas that were unilateral in 65.5%, benign in 89.7%, and with a ganglioneural component in 20.7%. Three female patients (2.8% of the cohort, aged 42-63 years) presented with well-differentiated GEP-NETs, and 4 (3.7%) with GISTs. One patient had primary hyperparathyroidism, 1 patient had medullary microcarcinoma, and 16 patients had goiter, multinodular in 10 cases. There was no correlation between pheochromocytoma and other NF1 tumoral manifestations, nor correlations between pheochromocytoma and NF1 genotype, despite a familial clustering in one-third of patients. The pheochromocytoma prevalence in this NF1 cohort was higher (>20%) than previously described, confirming the interest of systematic screening, especially in young women. The prevalence of GEP-NETs and GISTs was about 3%, respectively. No phenotype-genotype correlation was observed.

Abstract #1402263: A Malignant Duo: Mixed Medullary and Follicular Variant Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is rare and only constitutes 5-10% of all thyroid malignancies. Mixed MTC and papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) are even more rare and are only found in less than 1% of MTC cases. These malignancies arise from different cell origins, follicular cells of endoderm and parafollicular C cell of neural crest. It is not clear if the coexistence of these tumors in the same patient is a coincidence or if there is a common genetic culprit. We present a case of a lady with metastatic mixed MTC and PTC. A 61-year-old woman with history of Hashimoto disease was found to have bilateral thyroid nodules, the largest (1.7cm) was in the right lobe. This nodule met fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy criteria and was found to have a follicular neoplasm of undetermined significance. The patient elected to pursue total thyroidectomy instead of lobectomy given presence of bilateral nodules. Postoperative pathology showed mixed medullary carcinoma (pT3b) and follicular variant papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (pT1a) involving the right lobe with positive anterior and posterior margins and lymphovascular invasion. Preoperative calcitonin was not checked. However, post-thyroidectomy calcitonin was 1599 pg/mL. She underwent central and right lateral neck dissection which showed 27 out of 35 lymph nodes were positive for malignancy. Postoperative calcitonin dropped to 38.7 pg/mL. She then established care in our endocrine clinic. Screening for pheochromocytoma and primary hyperparathyroidism was normal. She underwent external beam radiation of the neck. A year after her initial surgery, her neck ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) studies show no signs of local or distant anatomic recurrence. Her thyroglobulin level remains undetectable, CEA within normal range, and calcitonin stable at about 20 pg/mL. She is on levothyroxine 100mcg daily with TSH at suppression goal of < 0.1 mIU/L. Mixed PTC and MTC is poorly studied due to its rarity. The origin of these mixed tumors is unclear, but some suggest that they arise from neoplastic changes of remnant multipotent cells in the thyroid. While patients with PTC often have a favorable prognosis following surgical therapy, MTC has a more aggressive course. A retrospective study of 183 patients suggests that this entity is more common in patients older than 45 years and is associated with a better survival than MTC alone. We suggest monitoring patients like ours for both MTC and PTC, as if present in isolation. Our case will highlight the clinical aspects of this condition and our current knowledge of its pathophysiology.

Pheochromocytoma Associated with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Presenting with Secondary Amenorrhea - A Rare Case Report.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is a complex, multi-system genetic disorder that is associated with an increased prevalence of pheochromocytoma 1.0%–5.7% compared to the general population. Currently, there are no generally accepted guidelines of screening for pheochromocytoma and in asymptomatic individuals of the population with approaches and practices varying considerably between physicians. We are reporting a rare case of normotensive pheochromocytoma associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 presenting with secondary amenorrhea.

Reference intervals for plasma, urinary, and salivary concentrations of free metanephrines in dogs: Relevance to the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma.

Measurement of free metanephrines is recommended for screening of pheochromocytoma (PCC) but requires appropriate reference intervals (RIs). To report RIs for plasma, urinary and salivary concentrations of free metanephrines and to determine the diagnostic performance of plasma free normetanephrine (pNMN) and metanephrine (pMN) concentrations in dogs with PCC, hypercortisolism (HC), and nonadrenal illness (NAI). Eighty healthy dogs, 11 PCC dogs, 25 HC dogs, 6 NAI dogs. Plasma, urine, and saliva were collected prospectively from healthy dogs, and free metanephrine concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In addition, medical records of dogs that had plasma free metanephrine concentrations measured by LC-MS/MS between 2018-2021 were studied retrospectively. The RIs for free metanephrines in plasma, urine and saliva are reported. Dogs with PCC had significantly higher pNMN than dogs with HC (P< .001) and NAI (P= .002). The PCC dogs had significantly higher pMN than HC dogs (P< .001), but not higher than NAI dogs (P= .29). Using the upper reference limit, pNMN (>3.56 nmol/L) showed high sensitivity (100%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 72-100) and specificity (94%, 95% CI: 79-99) for diagnosis of PCC, whereas pMN (>2.49 nmol/L) showed moderate sensitivity (73%, 95% CI: 39-94) and high specificity (94%, 95% CI: 79-99). With establishment of these RIs, biochemical testing for PCC in dogs can be substantially improved. Measurement of pNMN is superior to pMN in dogs with PCC.

ODP450 A Case of Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Cancer Presenting with Pathologic Hip Fracture

Abstract Introduction Medullary thyroid cancer accounts for less than 5% of thyroid malignancies. Distant metastatic disease typically presents in lymph nodes, lung, liver and bone. We present a patient who initially presented with a pathologic hip fracture with bone biopsy revealing medullary thyroid carcinoma. Case Description A 44-year-old male with no past medical history presented to the emergency department for right hip pain following a mechanical fall. Imaging showed a right femoral neck pathologic fracture as well as lytic lesions within the right femoral neck and right ilium. Family history was significant for pancreatic cancer and breast cancer. The patient underwent bone biopsy of the right femur followed by total hip arthroplasty. Bone biopsy revealed metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma. Thyroid ultrasound showed a 1.2 centimeter right solid hypoechoic nodule along with extensive cervical lymphadenopathy. Further imaging revealed metastatic disease throughout the thoracic spine, mediastinal lymphadenopathy, and a left 2.2 centimeter adrenal lesion with peripheral enhancement and possible necrosis. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level was 551 ng/mL (normal &amp;lt;4.7), calcitonin was 2,498 pg/mL (normal &amp;lt;10), and calcium levels were normal. Plasma free metanephrines were normal and plasma normetanephrines were less than two times the upper limit of normal. Genetic testing on the bone biopsy specimen revealed a RET p. C618S variant. Germline RET testing was collected. The patient was discharged with close follow-up with oncology to initiate systemic therapy and follow-up with endocrinology for the adrenal mass. Discussion Majority of cases of medullary thyroid carcinoma are sporadic. Patients typically present with a thyroid nodule with many having cervical lymph node involvement at diagnosis and 5-10% having distant metastatic disease. Our patient's initial presentation was unique in that he presented with a pathologic fracture. Bone metastases can be seen in about 30% of cases of metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma. Calcitonin levels greater than 500 pg/mL require additional imaging to exclude metastatic disease. If RET mutational status is unknown, patients should be screened for primary hyperparathyroidism and pheochromocytoma. Screening for pheochromocytoma is critical in preoperative management of these patients. Treatment for patients with metastatic disease involves surgery, external beam radiotherapy, and kinase inhibitors. Presentation: No date and time listed

ODP039 Giant Cystic Pheochromocytoma and GIST in a Patient With NF-1

Abstract Introduction Neurofibromatosis-1 (NF-1) is a genetic condition known to be associated with pheochromocytoma. We report a case of giant cystic pheochromocytoma in a patient with NF-1 and hypertensionincidentally found to have gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) at operation. Clinical case: A 60-years old woman presented with a 5-week history of left sided abdominal lump. Her history is significant for NF-1, flank surgery age 5 and hypertension managed by amlodipine. Examination revealed a large nontender left upper quadrant abdominal mass crossing the midline. Computed tomography showed a20. 0×13.1×21.1 cm septate cystic and/or necrotic lesion arising from the left retroperitoneum versus adrenal gland, displacing the kidney anteromedially. Plasma free metanephrine was 3.38 nM (0-0.49) normetanephrine 3.47 nM (0-0.89),urine metanephrine 2605 mcg/day (36-229), urine normetanephrine 1215 mcg/day (95-650). There were no prior images or screens for pheochromocytoma. After preoperative blockade with phenoxybenzamine, open left adrenalectomy was performed. Intraoperative blood pressure fluctuated significantly. Exophytic firm nodules were incidentally noted and removed from the jejunum. Pathology revealed a22.5×21. 0×11.9 cm pheochromocytoma weighing 3058.9 g and five 0.2-0.7 cm gastrointestinal stromal tumors, spindle type. One-month postoperative metanephrine was 0.16 with normetanephrine 0.53 nM. The blood pressure remained normal without antihypertensives. Discussion Giant cystic pheochromocytomas are rare and may be silent. In populations with NF-1 the prevalence of pheochromocytoma is 0.1-7.7% and GIST 1.2% 1–3 . Their co-existence is seen less frequently. Recommendations for pheochromocytoma screening in NF-1 vary, from only hypertensive or symptomatic patients to routinely every 3 years 2–5 . There is no screening test for GIST 1 . Our patient presented at age 60 with the rare combination of clinically giant unilateral cystic pheochromocytoma, with incidental GIST in the setting of NF-1 and hypertension . Conclusion Routine screening for pheochromocytoma in patients with NF-1, especially those with hypertension may lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

ODP583 Screening for Pheochromocytoma in a Cohort of Patients with Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: New insights on Prevalence and Screening Tests Reliability Surrounding the Acute Cardiac Event

Abstract Background According to Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) diagnostic criteria, pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) should be excluded as secondary causes. However, it is unclear whether PPGL screening in the setting of acute TCM is reliable. We aimed to assess the prevalence of PPGL and the reliability of PPGL screening in a cohort of patients with TCM. Method: We retrospectively reviewed data from patients admitted in a tertiary hospital between August 2012 and January 2021 with a diagnosis of TCM proven by typical echocardiography findings and no acute occlusion on coronarography, who were screened for PPGL by plasma metanephrines/normetanephrines (M/NM). If the first screening was positive, a second plasma M/NM sample was used for confirmation. Time between TCM diagnosis and PPGL screening was collected. Results Among 64 patients identified with TCM, 42 underwent plasma M/NM screening. 81. 0% were female, and the mean age was 67.4 ± 9.9 years old. Ten patients (23.8%) had a positive result. Of those, 8 patients had a weakly positive result (1-2×upper limit of normal [ULN]) and 2 had a strongly positive result (&amp;gt;2×ULN). Of those 10 patients, 6 underwent a second screening: 5 had a normal result and 1 had a weakly positive result (plasma NM 1. 06×ULN). This patient underwent a third screening that was negative. In addition, an abdominal CT showed normal adrenal glands, and their chromogranin A levels were normal. Four patients had a positive initial PPGL screening, but they did not undergo a second screening: 3 died of causes unrelated to TCM before a second plasma M/NM sample was taken and one patient was lost to follow-up (his plasma NM was weakly positive at 1.29×ULN). They all had an abdominal CT that showed normal adrenal glands. Average time between TCM diagnosis and PPGL screening in all patients and in patients with a positive initial screening was 4.57 ± 3.91 and 3.38 ± 2.12 days, respectively. A linear regression model suggested an inverse relationship between plasma M/NM and time between TCM diagnosis and screening, with R2 = 0.2275. Conclusion TCM occurring as the initial presentation of PPGL is rare. All patients with a positive screening ended up being false positives in our study. The ratio of false positive results when screening for PPGL in the setting of acute TCM seems to be higher than in the general population, which could be explained by a hyperadrenergic state. It is unclear whether a shorter delay between TCM diagnosis and PPGL screening may be associated with more false positives. More research is needed to determine what is the optimal timing for PPGL screening in acute TCM and if higher cut-offs should be used to minimize false positive results. Presentation: No date and time listed

Boronate affinity paper spray mass spectrometry for determination of elevated levels of catecholamines in urine

The analysis of catecholamines, such as dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine in urine can be used in the diagnosis of certain pathologies, such as hormone-producing tumors. Here, a fast and simple quantitative boronate affinity paper spray tandem mass spectrometric (PS-MS/MS) method is established, which can improve selectivity and reduce ion suppression without needing any instrumental chromatography. We use here the property of boronic acids, which can selectively bind ortho-diol-containing compounds under alkaline conditions. Paper tip modification and catechol enrichment protocols were developed to selectively bind, clean up and subsequently desorb such catecholamines. Standard catecholamine solutions, as well as human urine samples were analyzed with the PS-MS(/MS) method, which is fast, cheap and easy-to-operate compared to HPLC-MS/MS. Despite its high simplicity, boronate affinity PS-MS/MS exhibits good performance compared to HPLC-MS/MS in human urine analysis in terms of precision (2.1%–7.2% vs. 1.1%–2.9%) and accuracy (−10.2%–9.3% vs. −4.8%–5.1%), and a physiologically relevant limit of detection (0.027–0.12 μg mL−1). The boronate affinity PS-MS/MS clearly achieved the detection limits that would allow the fast analysis of urine samples for clinical purposes, such as screening for pheochromocytoma (exceeding 0.5 μg mL−1).

Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma and Associated Endocrinopathies in Slovenia from 1995 to 2021.

Background: Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare endocrine tumour that is sporadic in 75% of cases and occurs as a part of inherited cancer syndromes in approximately 25% of cases. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and type of RET pathogenic variants (PVs) in the Slovenian MTC patient population diagnosed between 1995 and 2021 and to elucidate the full range of associated endocrinopathies. Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records of 266 MTC patients and their relatives seen in a tertiary centre between 1995 and 2021 was performed. Sequence analysis of exons 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, and 16 of the RET gene was analysed in most patients using Sanger sequencing. From 2017, the entire sequence of RET gene was analysed in most patients using targeted next-generation sequencing. Results: Germline PVs in the RET proto-oncogene were identified in 21.6% probands from 21 different MTC families. Of their tested relatives, 65% (67/103) were RET-positive and 35% (36/103) were RET-negative. PVs were detected in codon 618 and codon 634 in 28.6%, and in codon 790 in 23.8%. The RET-positive group consisted of 52 MTC patients, 13 patients with C cell hyperplasia and 2 individuals with neither. Associated endocrinopathies were diagnosed in 8/21 families: primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) in six families and pheochromocytoma (PHEO) in five families. In 62% of RET-positive families (13/21), no associated endocrinopathies were diagnosed. PHEO was most commonly associated with C634R (6/13) and PHPT with C634R (4/7). Hirschsprung’s disease appeared in one patient with RET PV in codon 618. Based on data from the Cancer Registry of Republic of Slovenia, only individual cases of common cancers with well understood environmental risk factors were discovered; lung cancer in 2/21 of families, papillary thyroid cancer in 3/21 of families, cutaneous melanoma in 2/21 of families, cervical cancer in 1/21 families, and lymphoma in 1/21 families. Conclusions: Analysis of prospectively collected MTC cases during a 27-year period revealed that 21.6% of Slovenian patients are RET PV carriers. Sixty-two percent of families had none of the associated endocrinopathies, confirming the thesis that FMTC is the most common presentation. This could suggest using risk-stratified management approaches when screening for PHEO and PHPT in RET PV carriers. However, more studies are needed to evaluate potential genetic risk modifiers as well as safety, improved quality of life, and medical cost reduction in the case of a patient-oriented approach.

TAKOTSUBO SYNDROME REVEALING PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA

Objective: We report the case of 57-year old woman with no previously known cardiovascular disease. Design and method: Her conventional cardiovascular risk factors were type 2 diabetes (HbA1c&lt; 6.5%), hypertension and active smoking. She presented to the ER for thoracic pain, headache, sweating and tachycardia (150 bpm). Results: Blood analysis showed an elevation of cardiac biomarkers (Troponin 2035ng/l; BNP 541ng/l, Ddimers 19500ug/l), and acute renal impairment (creatinin 158umol/l) while EKG showed inferior NSTEMI. Echocardiography visualized typical takotsubo aspect with apical hypokinesia. Thoraco-abdominal CT-scan showed an important left adrenal tumor. Plasmatic and urinary metanephrine and normetanephrine were high. The patient benefited from adrenal surgery with an optimal result on blood pressure control. Conclusions: Although the association TTS-pheochromocytoma has already been described, it remains uncommon. Catecholamine excessive secretion mediates TTS cardiomyopathy having a negative impact essentially on apical segments increasing wall stress and pressure, but different ventricular segments may be concerned as individual adrenoreceptors distribution patterns vary. TTS diagnosis should legitimate pheochromocytoma screening when associated with labile hypertension.

Predictive model of pheochromocytoma based on the imaging features of the adrenal tumours

The purpose of our study was to develop a predictive model to rule out pheochromocytoma among adrenal tumours, based on unenhanced computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. We performed a retrospective multicentre study of 1131 patients presenting with adrenal lesions including 163 subjects with histological confirmation of pheochromocytoma (PHEO), and 968 patients showing no clinical suspicion of pheochromocytoma in whom plasma and/or urinary metanephrines and/or catecholamines were within reference ranges (non-PHEO). We found that tumour size was significantly larger in PHEO than non-PHEO lesions (44.3 ± 33.2 versus 20.6 ± 9.2 mm respectively; P < 0.001). Mean unenhanced CT attenuation was higher in PHEO (52.4 ± 43.1 versus 4.7 ± 17.9HU; P < 0.001). High lipid content in CT was more frequent among non-PHEO (83.6% versus 3.8% respectively; P < 0.001); and this feature alone had 83.6% sensitivity and 96.2% specificity to rule out pheochromocytoma with an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC-ROC) of 0.899. The combination of high lipid content and tumour size improved the diagnostic accuracy (AUC-ROC 0.961, sensitivity 88.1% and specificity 92.3%). The probability of having a pheochromocytoma was 0.1% for adrenal lesions smaller than 20 mm showing high lipid content in CT. Ninety percent of non-PHEO presented loss of signal in the “out of phase” MRI sequence compared to 39.0% of PHEO (P < 0.001), but the specificity of this feature for the diagnosis of non-PHEO lesions low. In conclusion, our study suggests that sparing biochemical screening for pheochromocytoma might be reasonable in patients with adrenal lesions smaller than 20 mm showing high lipid content in the CT scan, if there are no typical signs and symptoms of pheochromocytoma.

Bilateral Adrenal Incidentalomas, Uncommon Presentation and Very Rare Pathology

Background: Adrenal incidentaloma is an adrenal mass larger than 1cm accidentally discovered by radiological examination. The incidentalomas should be evaluated for malignancy and functionality. The prevalence of adrenal incidentaloma is 4–10%,1 and around 10–15% of incidentally discovered adrenal masses can be bilateral.2 We present a patient with bilateral adrenal masses due to primary adrenal lymphoma. Clinical Case: 74-year-old gentleman, with past medical history of type-2 Diabetes mellitus, hypertension, presented to our hospital with 2 months history of right-sided flank pain, 20 kg weight loss, loss of appetite and dizziness. Otherwise, no fever, night sweats, bleeding per rectum or urinary symptoms. On physical examination, vital signs were within normal, no remarkable findings other than tenderness over the right flank. Complete blood count and chemistry panel were within normal. Abdominal CT scan was done for evaluation of the abdominal pain which showed two large masses replacing the adrenal glands measure about 10cm in diameter with patchy areas of enhancement. Adrenal insufficiency was suspected based on the symptoms and the CT scan findings. Short syncatin test (high-dose test 250mcg) was done, which showed a cortisol baseline 152nmol/L, 30 minutes 168nmol/L, and 60 minutes 169nmol/L. This was suggestive of adrenal insufficiency, so he was started on hydrocortisone. Screening for pheochromocytoma was done as the patient developed uncontrolled BP readings prior to a scheduled adrenal biopsy. 24-hour urine metanephrines and normetanephrine were negative. CT-guided adrenal mass biopsy showed findings suggestive of large B-cell lymphoma. FDG PET-CT scan showed huge bilateral intense FDG uptake in the adrenal glands with no extra-abdominal manifestations noted. He was started on R-CHOP chemotherapy and after 4cycles, a PET scan showed a significant decrease in the size of previous adrenal masses. Conclusion: Bilateral adrenal incidentaloma should be evaluated the same as unilateral adrenal mass. Although adrenal involvement is common in non-Hodgkin lymphoma, primary adrenal lymphoma is extremely uncommon.

Hypertension in Children and Adolescents with Turner Syndrome (TS), Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1), and Williams Syndrome (WS).

Turner syndrome (TS), neurofibromatosis type 1(NF1), and William Syndrome (WS) are 3 genetic conditions that are all associated with a substantial increase in risk of hypertension. In this review, we focus on factors leading to hypertension and on clinical manifestations and management of hypertension in children and adolescents with these genetic conditions RECENT FINDINGS: In most instances, hypertension is secondary. There is a high prevalence of masked hypertension in TS; however, the extent to which control of the BP helps reduce the risk of aortic dissection/aneurysm in TS is not yet fully elucidated. Vasculopathies are the least emphasized but most important manifestation of NF1. Of note, routine screening for pheochromocytoma in NFI is not recommended as it is not cost-effective. Cardiovascular complications are the major cause of death in patients with WBS. ABPM identifies patients without overt aortic or renovascular narrowing. Antihypertensive agents such as ARBs that have direct vascular wall effects and agents that inhibit oxidative stress (minoxidil) should be considered, even in those who do not exhibit overt hypertension. Elevated blood pressure in children and adolescence manifests early with end-organ changes and when left untreated, increases risk for premature onset of cardiovascular disease. Vigilant monitoring of the blood pressure is recommended. Accurate early diagnosis and management of hypertension will delay or prevent target organ damage and ensure a healthier transition to adulthood among children afflicted with these conditions.

Pediatric pheochromocytoma in association with Von Hippel–Lindau disease: Focus on screening strategies

IntroductionVon Hippel–Lindau disease (VHL) is a syndrome of familial predisposition to the development of malignant and benign tumours, due to mutations in the VHL tumour suppressor gene. Pheochromocytoma is a tumour that develops in the adrenal gland, rare in pediatric age, and may be associated with genetic abnormalities including mutations in the VHL gene. Systematic screening of pheochromocytoma in children carrying a VHL mutation has been proposed. However, some VHL patients who have been screened may develop symptoms associated with pheochromocytoma despite screening. Here, we report on such a case. Clinical caseA 13-year-old boy, known to be a carrier of a mutation of the VHL gene, undergoing annual screening, was admitted to our hospital for clinical symptoms related to a right adrenal pheochromocytoma discovered on abdominal imaging. After hemodynamic stabilisation, the pheochromocytoma was surgically resected. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The postoperative care was simple. The event-free period is currently 2 years. DiscussionThe present case has led us to reflect on the French and international screening strategies for pheochromocytoma in children carrying a mutation of the VHL gene. Between 2013 and 2018, six different recommendations were proposed for pheochromocytoma screening in secondary prevention for children with a VHL mutation, with variability regarding the age of onset and complementary examinations to be carried out. Despite the existence of these recommendations, our case demonstrates that a pheochromocytoma can develop by escaping well-performed screening. The role of early abdominal imaging should be redefined to improve the efficiency of screening. ConclusionThe discovery of a pheochromocytoma in a child must be systematically investigated for an underlying genetic cause. In the particular case of children carrying a mutation of the VHL gene, annual abdominal imaging should be included in the pheochromocytoma screening protocol from the age of 5 years.

An LC-MRM assay for the quantification of metanephrines from dried blood spots for the diagnosis of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas

The quantitation of metanephrine (MN), normetanephrine (NMN), and 3-methoxytyramine (3-MT) – referred to as metanephrines -- by LC-MS/MS is the gold-standard for screening for pheochromocytoma and paragangliomas (PPGLs), tumours of the adrenal gland and the peripheral nervous system. An assay for metanephrines from dried blood spots (DBSs) would be of high clinical utility as it simplifies sample collection, enables remote sampling, and could increase compliance with the clinical recommendation for supine sampling. Moreover, DBS sampling facilitates the measurement of blood-derived metanephrines in pediatric patients – where DBSs are well-established – in order to diagnose neuroblastomas.Here, we adapted an established derivatization-based LC-MRM-MS assay for plasma catecholamines, and optimized the sample extraction, LC, and MS parameters to produce a fast, sensitive, and robust method for the measurement of metanephrines from DBSs, including 3-methoxytyramine. The DBS samples were excised, derivatized with phenyl isothiocyanate (PITC) on-spot, extracted, and measured by LC-MRM-MS. To validate assay suitability and performance, we assessed the linearity, precision, accuracy, recovery, and matrix effects of the method, and determined the stability of metanephrines in DBSs under different storage conditions. Assay performance for NMN, MN, and 3-MT was sufficient for quantitation from a single DBS within a linear range from 40 to 2000 pg/mL. MN and NMN were stable in DBSs for 2 weeks, whereas 3-MT was stable for one week regardless of storage temperature. Altogether, this work represents the first quantitative LC-MS/MS method for metanephrines from DBSs and provides a novel opportunity for the diagnosis of PPGLs and neuroblastomas in the future.