Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2025

A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
A life-threatening case of pheochromocytoma crisis with hemodynamic instability
Hiroaki Taniguchi1, Nobuaki Kiriu1, Hiroshi Kato1
1Department of Traumatology and Critical Care Medicine National Defense Medical College Saitama Japan.
Background:
Pheochromocytoma crisis (PCC) is a fatal disease characterized by hyper and/or hypotension, hyperthermia, and encephalopathy, and its diagnosis and treatment are challenging.
Case Presentation:
A 50-year-old woman presented with hypertension, and computed tomography showed an adrenal tumor. Fever, shock, and impaired consciousness were observed, and PCC was diagnosed clinically. Systolic blood pressure fluctuated from 40-220 mmHg within a few minutes, and circulatory agonists were adjusted accordingly. The blood pressure changes gradually stabilized with α-blockade. Surgery was performed on hospital day 26, and the pathological diagnosis was consistent with a pheochromocytoma. She was discharged on hospital day 37.
Conclusion:
Computed tomography may facilitate early diagnosis in the acute phase of PCC in case of limited patient medical information and insufficient time to wait for a definitive diagnosis using traditional hormone tests. The shock requires pharmacological therapy to maintain circulation, and paradoxically, the administration of α-blockade can be lifesaving.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Adrenal Gland Disorders
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Hypertension I: Introduction
Adrenergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
Emergency and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) applications: Pressor agents increase blood pressure, heart rate, and contractility in shock and organ failure situations. Dopamine can induce vasodilation and stimulate adrenoceptors. Endogenous catecholamines are effective in treating cardiogenic shock. α2-agonists like clonidine can reverse anesthesia-induced hypertension.
Allergies and...
Blood Pressure Imbalances and Circulatory Shock
Blood Pressure: Hypertension and Hypotension
Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is 120-129/under 80 mm Hg. Hypertension, warranting treatment at 130/80 mm Hg, is often asymptomatic and can lead to severe cardiovascular events, aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, chronic renal disease, or cardiac...
Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management

