Pheochromocytoma-Induced Cardiomyopathy Mimicking Acute Coronary Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Cardiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor secreting excess catecholamines.
• It affects 0.1% to 0.6% of hypertensive patients.
• Clinical presentation is highly variable, often mimicking other conditions.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms suggestive of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.
• Cardiac catheterization revealed no coronary artery disease.
• Cardiomyopathy developed, complicating the initial diagnosis.

Findings:

• The patient was ultimately diagnosed with pheochromocytoma.
• This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by atypical pheochromocytoma presentations.
• The tumor's catecholamine secretion likely contributed to the cardiac manifestations.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the importance of considering rare diagnoses like pheochromocytoma in patients with unexplained cardiac symptoms.
• Highlights the need for a high index of suspicion for pheochromocytoma in the differential diagnosis of myocardial infarction and heart failure.
• Underscores the potential for successful management and good prognosis with timely diagnosis and appropriate therapy, despite initial diagnostic complexities.