What is the primary tumor type arising from the adrenal medulla that secretes norepinephrine and epinephrine?

The primary tumor type that arises from the adrenal medulla and is responsible for secreting catecholamines such as norepinephrine and epinephrine is a pheochromocytoma. This tumor originates from chromaffin cells, which are located within the adrenal medulla, and these cells are specialized for the production of these hormones.

Pheochromocytomas can cause significant clinical symptoms related to excess catecholamine release, including hypertension, palpitations, sweating, and anxiety. These symptoms occur due to the effects of norepinephrine and epinephrine on the cardiovascular system and other organ systems.

Other tumor types listed do not primarily originate from the adrenal medulla or are not associated with catecholamine secretion. For example, adrenal adenomas are typically benign tumors of the adrenal cortex and can produce hormones like cortisol, but they do not secrete catecholamines. Neuroblastoma is primarily a pediatric tumor that arises from neural crest cells and usually occurs outside of the adrenal gland, although it can sometimes involve the adrenal medulla. Adrenal carcinoma is a malignant tumor of the adrenal cortex and also does not primarily produce catecholamines.

The distinct origin and functional characteristics of pheochromocytoma make it the correct answer, as it