The Launch of Duke’s Multidisciplinary Program for Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma (PPGL)
Duke has launched the Multidisciplinary Program for Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma (PPGL). This is a comprehensive initiative that brings together experts from 14 specialties and subspecialties to deliver integrated, patient-centered care for individuals with these rare tumors.
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors that often secrete excess hormones, leading to complex clinical presentations due to both hormonal effects and tumor burden. Their rarity and complexity make diagnosis, surgery, treatment, and ongoing management particularly challenging, requiring close coordination across multiple disciplines. These tumors also have implications for families due to genetic predisposition.
Recognizing this need, Sona Sharma, MD, associate professor of Medicine, spearheaded the formation of this unified multi-discipline program by identifying and bringing together experts from across the institution. Co-directed by Dr. Sona Sharma (Adult Endocrinology) and Randall Scheri, MD (Endocrine Surgery), the program offers comprehensive care spanning the full continuum—from genetic screening to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up.
The collaborative team includes Drs. Russel Kahmke (Head and Neck Surgery), Matthew Hartwig (Thoracic Surgery), Michael Abern and Ankeet Shah (Urologic Oncology), Michael Morse (Medical Oncology), Charles Kim (Interventional Radiology), John Kirkpatrick (Radiation Oncology), Laura Page (Pediatric Endocrinology), David Van Mater (Pediatric Oncology), Lisa Ho (Radiology), Colm Kelleher (Nuclear Medicine), Daniel Range and Jeffrey Arnold (Pathology), Anica Land, NP (Endocrinology), and Maggie Powell Frazier, M.S., CGC (Clinical Cancer Genetics). Dr. Sharma and Dr. Scheri will also hold a monthly combined clinic at the Duke Cancer Center to expedite care and enhance coordination for patients.
By fostering close collaboration among these diverse clinical teams, the aim is to streamline care, improve outcomes, and advance knowledge in the management of this complex and rare disease.