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A retrospective cohort study published in June 2025 in Frontiers of Endocrinology aimed to analyze the sex-based differences in the management and outcomes of individuals diagnosed with pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs).  

They assessed all individuals diagnosed with PPGLs from June 2005 to August 2024. Data collected included demographics, biochemical markers, genetic profiles, pharmacologic treatments, vital signs at initial presentation, and follow-up information, including survival outcomes.  

The results showed that 196 individuals with PPGLs were analyzed, including 108 females and 88 males. Paragangliomas (PGL) were more common in females (23.1%) than in males (11.4%) (P=0.04). The final preoperative dose of phenoxybenzamine was lower in females (50.8 ± 19.8 mg) than in males (87.5 ± 75.7 mg) (P=0.04). A non-significant difference was noted in preoperative doxazosin doses (22.3 ± 13.6 mg vs 26.0 ± 13.9 mg) (P=0.07). Fewer females underwent laparoscopic surgery compared to males (55.2% vs 71.1%) (P=0.03). Remission of type 2 diabetes occurred more frequently in females postoperatively (23.4% vs 11.8%) (P=0.04). No significant sex-based differences were observed in metastasis risk, blood pressure control after surgery, or survival outcomes.  

Investigators concluded that females were more likely to present with PGL and achieve type 2 diabetes remission post-surgery, while most other outcomes did not differ by sex. 

Source: frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2025.1597908/full