What are the potential risks when arterial blood pressure is uncontrolled due to pheochromocytoma?

Uncontrolled arterial blood pressure due to pheochromocytoma significantly increases the risk of stroke. Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal glands that secretes catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine), leading to episodes of hypertension, palpitations, and sweating. The persistent elevation in blood pressure can result in damage to the vascular system, particularly the small vessels in the brain. This heightened blood pressure can facilitate the development of ischemic strokes, either through direct vessel rupture or through thromboembolic events.

Increased blood pressure, particularly if sustained or severe, can lead to cerebrovascular accidents, which manifest as strokes. Thus, managing blood pressure in patients with pheochromocytoma is critical to prevent these severe complications.

The other choices presented relate to different physiological conditions. Hypoglycemia is not commonly associated with pheochromocytoma; instead, patients might experience hyperglycemia due to catecholamine-induced glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication of diabetes and, while it relates to blood glucose levels, is not directly linked to pheochromocytoma. Finally, a thyroid storm is a critical condition associated with hyperthyroid states and is not