“Pheochromocytoma” is the clinical term for adrenal gland cancer. It is uncommon in both dogs and cats, although it can occur particularly in older animals. It affects the glands that are located at the front of the kidney, nestled among fatty tissue where they regulate hormones such as epinephrine, aldosterone, and cortisol.
Adrenal gland cancers usually make themselves known because the tumor causes increased production of a particular hormone. In most cases, this hormone is known as glucocorticoid, an excess of which results in Cushing’s syndrome.
A dog or cat with this condition will eat, drink, and urinate more than usual. The belly may become swollen and the animal’s hair or fur may begin to fall out. Any or all of these symptoms may be intermittent or may not be present at all.
Some older pets with adrenal gland cancer will have a more rare type known as pheochromocytoma, which produce an excess of catecholamines. Most often diagnosed in dogs, the symptoms include decreased appetite and weight loss, lethargy, a rapid heartbeat, and high blood pressure.
The condition is treatable with surgery, which must be performed by an experienced professional. Animals that successfully undergo this surgery usually need hormone supplements throughout their lives.
Dr. Todd Prince 