A pheochromocytoma is not contagious. Surgery is the treatment of choice to remove the pheochromocytoma. Medications are used to help control the high blood pressure before and during surgery. Some people cannot tolerate surgery, or surgery cannot remove the entire tumor. In this case, blood pressure medications and chemotherapy may be needed.
Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to anesthesia .
The medications used to control blood pressure may cause allergic reactions , stomach upset, and other side effects. These people can usually return to normal activities after recovery. When a person cannot tolerate surgery, or when the tumor cannot be completely removed, death may occur. If the pheochromocytoma is successfully removed, urine tests and blood pressure measurements are done for a few years. These tests can help detect a recurrence of the tumor, which allows earlier treatment.