News Summary
Cleveland Clinic’s Endocrinology & Metabolism Institute has been designated as a Center of Excellence by the Pheo Para Alliance for its superior care in treating pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. This prestigious title recognizes the clinic’s commitment to advanced diagnostics, multidisciplinary treatments, and patient-centered approaches. With this distinction, Cleveland Clinic stands among only 14 centers nationwide dedicated to excellence in managing these rare tumors, showcasing its leadership and expertise in the field.
Cleveland Clinic Earns Center of Excellence Designation for Pheochromocytoma Care
Cleveland – Cleveland Clinic’s Endocrinology & Metabolism Institute and the Department of Endocrine Surgery have recently achieved the prestigious Center of Excellence designation for their exceptional care of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. This significant recognition, awarded by the Pheo Para Alliance, an internationally recognized patient advocacy group, was announced on December 31, 2025, highlighting Cleveland Clinic’s commitment to delivering superior, multidisciplinary expertise in managing these rare neuroendocrine tumors.
The Cleveland Clinic is now one of only 14 centers nationwide to hold this esteemed designation from the Pheo Para Alliance. This marks the second time the institution has earned this recognition, underscoring its consistent excellence and leadership in treating pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.
Understanding Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are rare tumors that originate from chromaffin cells. Pheochromocytomas typically develop in the adrenal medulla, which is located in the adrenal glands situated above each kidney. Paragangliomas, on the other hand, form outside the adrenal glands, commonly found in the abdomen, chest, neck, or head.
While often benign, these tumors are significant because they can produce excessive amounts of hormones called catecholamines, including norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine. The overproduction of these hormones can lead to a range of severe symptoms such as persistent or episodic high blood pressure, intense headaches, excessive sweating, and a rapid heart rate. If left untreated, the release of these hormones can cause life-threatening damage to other body systems, particularly the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to stroke or heart attack.
The Importance of Specialized, Multidisciplinary Care
Effective management of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma demands a highly specialized and multidisciplinary approach. These complex tumors necessitate careful assessment, precise interventions, and comprehensive long-term monitoring. The expert team typically includes specialists such as surgeons, pathologists, endocrinologists, oncologists, and genomic medicine experts who collaborate to provide holistic patient care.
At Cleveland Clinic, the program is directed by Surgeon Eren Berber, MD. The institution’s approach focuses on personalized management, adhering to the highest clinical guidelines to ensure favorable outcomes for patients. This includes state-of-the-art diagnostic procedures, such as biochemical testing and advanced imaging studies, crucial for accurate diagnosis and tumor localization.
Advanced Treatment and Patient-Centered Approach
Surgical removal of the tumor is often the primary treatment for pheochromocytoma, and Cleveland Clinic offers minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic, laparoscopic, lateral, and mini back scope adrenalectomy. These advanced methods are designed to reduce hospital stays and accelerate recovery times for patients. Prior to surgery, patients undergo specialized preparation, including medication to stabilize blood pressure and heart rate, which is critical in preventing complications during the procedure.
The Pheo Para Alliance’s Center of Excellence program plays a vital role in connecting patients and clinicians with institutions that uphold the highest standards of care. The designation process is comprehensive, evaluating clinical and patient satisfaction standards, patient outcomes, and the overall patient journey. This thorough evaluation ensures that designated centers, like Cleveland Clinic, provide not only cutting-edge medical care but also a supportive and educational environment for patients and their families.
Furthermore, because 30 to 40% of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are hereditary, genetic testing and counseling are integral components of care, helping to identify at-risk family members and guide treatment strategies. Patients diagnosed with these conditions are often advised to undergo lifelong follow-up to detect any potential recurrence or metastatic disease.
Cleveland Clinic’s ongoing commitment to exploring ways to improve patient care and advance research in endocrine and adrenal disorders ensures that individuals with these rare and complex conditions receive the best possible treatment available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is a pheochromocytoma?
- A pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that typically develops in the adrenal medulla, located in the adrenal glands above each kidney. These tumors can produce excessive amounts of hormones called catecholamines.
- What does the Center of Excellence designation mean for pheochromocytoma care?
- The Center of Excellence designation recognizes institutions that provide cutting-edge, high-quality, multidisciplinary care, adhere to stringent clinical and patient satisfaction standards, and actively participate in related research for pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.
- Who awarded this designation to Cleveland Clinic?
- The designation was awarded by the Pheo Para Alliance, an internationally recognized advocacy group dedicated to supporting individuals with pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas.
- How many centers nationwide have this designation?
- Cleveland Clinic is one of only 14 centers in the United States to have earned this Center of Excellence designation.
- What kind of specialists treat pheochromocytoma at Cleveland Clinic?
- Treatment at Cleveland Clinic involves a multidisciplinary team of highly experienced surgeons, pathologists, endocrinologists, oncologists, and genomic medicine experts.
Key Features of Cleveland Clinic’s Pheochromocytoma Center of Excellence
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Designation Name | Center of Excellence for Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma Care |
| Awarding Organization | Pheo Para Alliance (International Advocacy Group) |
| Recipient | Cleveland Clinic’s Endocrinology & Metabolism Institute and Department of Endocrine Surgery |
| Date of Designation Announcement | December 31, 2025 |
| Number of Designees Nationwide | One of only 14 in the United States |
| Key Aspects of Care | Multidisciplinary team, advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgery, genetic counseling, lifelong follow-up |
| Director of Program | Surgeon Eren Berber, MD |