Spectrum of Catechol Amine Biochemistry in Patients with Neuroblastoma

Abstract

THE report in 1957 by Mason et al.¹ of increased excretion of pressor amines in the urine of an infant with neuroblastoma served as an impetus to investigations on the possible secretory nature of the so-called "nonchromaffin" sympathetic tumors. Subsequent studies in patients with ganglioneuroma and particularly neuroblastoma have shown not only elevated levels of norepinephrine in the urine² but also increased excretion of its metabolites^{3 4 5 6 7} and biochemical precursors.^{4 , 6 , 8 , 9} Clinical evidence of excess norepinephrine production by the tumors (that is, hypertension) has been recognized in some cases but by no means uniformly. This suggests either altered vascular responsiveness or predominant . . .