A 35-year-old male is diagnosed with a hormone-secreting tumor of the adrenal medulla. He experiences elevated blood pressure, pupil dilation, "goose bumps," and excessive sweating of the armpits and hands. Which of the following hormones is the predominant one released by the tumor?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described in the case are classic for a hormone-secreting tumor of the adrenal medulla, also known as a pheochromocytoma. This type of tumor typically causes excessive secretion of both epinephrine and norepinephrine, but norepinephrine is often the predominant hormone released. Norepinephrine is responsible for the elevated blood pressure, pupil dilation, and "goose bumps" (piloerection), while the excessive sweating is caused by both epinephrine and norepinephrine. Dopamine is also produced in the adrenal medulla, but in much lower quantities than epinephrine and norepinephrine. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal cortex and is not typically associated with these types of symptoms.

A 35-Year-Old Male Is Diagnosed with a Hormone-Secreting Tumor of the Adrenal