Phaeochromocytoma presenting with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.
Mohamed A Ahmed1, Abdullah Sayied Abdullah2, Thomas John Kiernan3
1University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Ireland.
BMJ Case Reports
|February 10, 2016
Summary
Phaeochromocytoma, a rare endocrine tumor, can cause heart attacks. This case highlights myocardial infarction in a patient with phaeochromocytoma and non-obstructive coronary artery disease.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Phaeochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor arising from chromaffin cells, typically in the adrenal medulla.
- It secretes catecholamines, leading to diverse clinical manifestations, including cardiovascular complications.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old woman presented with symptoms of acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.
- Her medical history was notable for phaeochromocytoma, an adrenal tumor.
Findings:
- Coronary angiography revealed non-obstructive coronary artery disease.
- The myocardial infarction was attributed to catecholamine excess secondary to phaeochromocytoma.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering phaeochromocytoma in patients presenting with myocardial infarction, even without obstructive coronary disease.
- Early diagnosis and management of phaeochromocytoma are crucial to prevent cardiovascular events.
- Highlights the catecholamine-mediated cardiovascular effects of phaeochromocytoma.
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