Dhanasekar K, Visakan V, Tahir F, Balasubramanian SP. Composite phaeochromocytomas-a systematic review of published literature.
Langenbecks Arch Surg 2021;
407:517-527. [PMID:
33651160 PMCID:
PMC8933353 DOI:
10.1007/s00423-021-02129-5]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Introduction
Composite phaeochromocytoma is a tumour containing a separate tumour of neuronal origin in addition to a chromaffin cell tumour. This study reports on two cases from a single centre’s records and presents a systematic literature review of composite phaeochromocytomas.
Methods
In addition to describing 2 case reports, a systematic search of the Medline database from inception up to April 2020 was done for human case reports on composite phaeochromocytomas. Relevant titles and/or abstracts were screened, and full texts were reviewed to identify appropriate studies. Data was extracted and a descriptive analysis of presentation, clinical features, management strategies and outcomes was performed. The quality of included studies was assessed using a critical appraisal checklist.
Results
There were 62 studies included, with a total of 94 patients. Of 91 patients where data was available, the median (range) age of patients was 48 (4–86) years. Of 90 patients where information was provided, 57% were female. In at least 28% of patients, a genetic cause was identified. Common presenting features include abdominal pain, palpable mass, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal symptoms. The most common tumour component with phaeochromocytoma is ganglioneuroma; other components include ganglioneuroblastoma, neuroblastoma and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours. In patients with follow-up data (n=48), 85% of patients were alive and well at a median (range) follow-up time of 18 (0.5–168) months.
Conclusion
Composite phaeochromocytoma is a rare tumour, with a significant genetic predisposition. This review summarises available epidemiological data, which will be useful for clinicians managing this rare condition.
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