Large Pheochromocytoma Presenting as Refractory Cardiogenic Shock and Multiorgan Failure: A Case Report

We report a case of a large pheochromocytoma in a middle-aged woman with a good past health record. She presented with pheochromocytoma crisis, complaining of acute shortness of breath, and quickly deteriorated into refractory cardiogenic shock with multiorgan failure. Multi-axial CT showed a large mass in the left suprarenal region. Elevated serum catecholamines confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. Left distal transradial adrenal artery embolization under local anesthesia was performed because of limited femoral access and very high perioperative risk. The aim was to devascularize the tumor and reduce catecholamine secretion. Her labile blood pressure improved after embolization. She gradually recovered and underwent adrenalectomy three weeks later.