Malignant Paraganglioma – Symptoms, Treatment & Support

What is malignant paraganglioma?

Paraganglioma is an abnormal, rapid cell growth that originates from chromaffin cells. Chromaffin cells are nerve cells that release neurohormones found throughout the body and help carry out important body functions such as regulating blood pressure. Malignant paraganglioma is cancerous and can spread to other distant parts of the body.

Disease Causes

There is no well-known cause; however certain hereditary and genetic mutations are thought to be responsible for the development of malignant paraganglioma.

Disease Epidemiology

Malignant paragangliomas are rare forms of cancer and can occur at any age, but the peak incidence of tumor development occurs in 30-50 years.

Signs and symptoms

The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are

• High blood pressure
• Unusual rapid heartbeat
• Excessive sweating
• Headache
• Tremors (involuntary hands, arms, or leg movements)

Diagnosis

The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are

• CBC (Complete blood count)
• Complete urine examination
• Imaging diagnostic techniques such as X-Ray, CT scan, and PET scan can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
• Tumor Biopsy
• Immunohistochemistry

Treatment

Medications to treat excess production of the neuro-hormones, surgical removal of the tumor or affected part are the main treatment options. Other treatment options are radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The choice of the correct treatment option depends on several factors such as the nature of the cancer cells, the size, extent, and metastasis of the tumor, the patient’s age, the patient’s health status, the patient’s body weight, etc.

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What support can we give for Malignant Paraganglioma?

Malignant Paraganglioma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. We provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from a rare cancer such as Malignant Paraganglioma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!

You can help us with your donation:

Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways: Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences. Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form. Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.