skip to main content

Alpha-blockade Phaeo — SCE Medical Oncology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardCancer GeneticsAlpha-blockade PhaeoSCE Medical Oncology

A patient with metastatic SDHB-related paraganglioma has markedly elevated plasma metanephrines and episodic hypertension. An invasive procedure is planned. Which pre-procedure principle is essential?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Establish alpha blockade before adding beta blockade or performing intervention

A functional paraganglioma requires alpha blockade and volume restoration before any beta blocker or invasive intervention. Establish beta blockade before adding alpha blockade or performing intervention: beta blockade first risks unopposed alpha stimulation and hypertensive crisis. Establish calcium-channel blockade before adding alpha blockade or performing intervention: calcium-channel blockade can supplement or occasionally substitute but is not the core sequencing principle. Establish metyrosine before adding alpha blockade or performing intervention: metyrosine is an adjunct in selected severe disease rather than a prerequisite before alpha blockade. Establish volume restriction before adding alpha blockade or performing intervention: patients require salt and volume repletion after adequate alpha blockade.

Reference: Phenoxybenzamine 10 mg UK summary of product characteristics (Current UK SmPC, accessed July 2026): https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6036/smpc