What is a tumor located in the adrenal glands that produces excessive amounts of norepinephrine and epinephrine?

A pheochromocytoma is a specific type of tumor that arises from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla, which are responsible for producing catecholamines such as norepinephrine and epinephrine. This tumor leads to the excessive secretion of these hormones, resulting in symptoms such as hypertension, palpitations, sweating, and anxiety due to the catecholamine release.

Understanding the physiological context helps clarify why this condition is unique: While adrenal adenomas may also be found in the adrenal glands, they typically lead to the production of cortisol or aldosterone rather than catecholamines. Neuroblastoma, on the other hand, is generally a tumor in the sympathetic nervous system commonly seen in children, not typically associated with the adrenal glands in adults. Cushing's tumor refers to an adrenal tumor leading to excess cortisol production, not the catecholamines.

Thus, the defining characteristic of a pheochromocytoma is its production of norepinephrine and epinephrine, differentiating it from other adrenal or neurogenic tumors.