Pheochromocytoma Blog

Genetic Research Sheds Light on Adrenal Gland Tumor Risk

Posted 15 Dec 2010 by Drugs.com

TUESDAY, Dec. 14 – Scientists report that they have advanced their knowledge of genetic mutations associated with adrenal gland tumors by identifying 13 new potential variations. Tumors called pheochromocytomas can affect the adrenal gland, which is located above the kidney. These tumors – which are usually benign but can also be cancerous – cause the adrenal gland to produce too much adrenaline, resulting in high blood pressure, headaches, heart palpitations, nausea and vomiting. In the new study, which included nearly 1,000 people, the researchers identified 19 mutations in the FP/TMEM127 gene that may be associated with pheochromocytomas in the adrenal gland. "Of these, 19 mutations found in 20 patients were considered of potential pathogenic significance. Thirteen of these variants were [new], while the remainder had been previously reported," Li Yao, of the University of Texas ... Read more

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