Markers of malignancy in pheochromocytomas

Abstract

A pheochromocytoma is a neoplasm composed of cells which synthesize and release catecholamines. These tumors produce the hypertension which can be cured with surgical excision of the lesion. The pathological picture of pheochromocytomas is varied and nothing but the presence of metastases can determine aggressiveness of this neoplasm. Current studies try to look for other biological markers which can separate malignant tumors before they metastasize. It allows to target with more effective therapy. Many studies analyze details of microscopic features of these tumors, immunohistochemical markers and molecular disorders. It seems that the most important factor in estimation of aggressiveness of pheochromocytomas is PASS scale. The detection of high expression of telomerase and hTERT and high proliferative activity, measured by immunohistochemistry with the MIB-1 antibody supports most strongly biological malignancy of pheochromocytoma.