An adult male patient presents with clinical findings of headache, sweating, and palpitations. Laboratory evaluation reveals urinary catecholamines and their metabolites. Which of the following specialized imaging studies is recommended if noncontrast abdominal CT is negative?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Urinary catecholamines and their metabolites are suggestive of pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma. MIBG (metaiodobenzylguanidine) scan is a specialized imaging study recommended for patients with suspected or confirmed pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma when noncontrast abdominal CT is negative. This scan can detect and localize primary and metastatic lesions. SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography) and PET (positron emission tomography) are other imaging studies that can be used for evaluation, but MIBG is the preferred first-line study. Contrast-enhanced CT can be used in selected cases, but MIBG scan is more sensitive and specific.

An Adult Male Patient Presents with Clinical Findings of Headache