False statement about extraadrenal pheochro mocytoma: (PGI May 2010)
**Core Concept**
Extraadrenal pheochromocytomas, also known as paragangliomas, are rare neuroendocrine tumors originating from the extraadrenal paraganglia. These tumors can be benign or malignant and are often associated with the secretion of catecholamines, leading to symptoms such as hypertension, tachycardia, and sweating.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Extraadrenal pheochromocytomas can occur in any part of the body, including the head, neck, thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. They are typically composed of chromaffin cells that are similar to those found in adrenal pheochromocytomas. The tumors can be functional, releasing catecholamines and causing symptoms, or non-functional, lacking significant hormone production. The diagnosis of extraadrenal pheochromocytoma often involves imaging studies, such as CT or MRI, and biochemical tests to detect catecholamine secretion.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Extraadrenal pheochromocytomas are typically associated with the secretion of catecholamines, leading to symptoms of excess hormone production. This statement is incorrect because it suggests a lack of association with catecholamine secretion.
* **Option B:** Extraadrenal pheochromocytomas are more common than adrenal pheochromocytomas. This statement is incorrect because adrenal pheochromocytomas are generally more common than extraadrenal pheochromocytomas.
* **Option C:** Extraadrenal pheochromocytomas are always benign. This statement is incorrect because some extraadrenal pheochromocytomas can be malignant, with the potential for metastasis and poor prognosis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When diagnosing and managing extraadrenal pheochromocytoma, it is essential to consider the possibility of malignancy and to perform thorough biochemical and imaging evaluations to rule out metastatic disease.
**Correct Answer: C. Extraadrenal pheochromocytomas are always benign.**