Purpose: Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are rare tumors of chromaffin cell origin. Their identification is likely increasing owing to the increased use of radiographic images detecting incidental adrenal masses.
Recent findings: The pathophysiology of hypertension induced by the release of catecholamines and newly discovered peptides has been shown to be more complex than the concept of episodic catecholamine release.
Summary: This review looks at the most recent advances in the physiology and molecular basis of these tumors.