Pheochromocytoma is a very rare tumor that stems from chromaffin cells and usually develops in the adrenal glands. Its equivalent, which exists outside of the adrenal glands, is paraganglioma. Approximately 10-26% of pheochromocytoma is malignant, what poses a significant therapeutical problem, as its presence, together with an abundant production of catecholamines, may lead to a number of perilous complications, such as spinal cord oppression or the damage of organs, what is responsible for producing catecholamines. Due to the risk that the tumor is, it is essential to event new and effective ways of treatment. In case of malignant tumors stemming from chromaffin cells, much is expected from antiangiogenic medicine. Its functioning consists of stopping of the process of neovascularization, which is indispensable for the development of the tumor. Sunitinib - a tyrosine kinase inhibitor - is perhaps the most promising antiangiogenic medicine, whose effectiveness is currently being evaluated in 2nd phase clinical trials. Attempts are also being made to conduct treatment with the use of other medicine of similar functioning, such as: thalidomide, imatinib or evrolimus.
Keywords: angiogenesis; antiangiogenic therapy; paraganglioma; pheochromocytoma; sunitinib.
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