[Dopamine-secreting phaeochromocytoma. A little known clinical and biochemical entity (author's transl)]

The authors have observed a case of phaeochromocytoma revealed by fever and poor general condition without hypertension. Urinary catecholamine assays showed predominant dopamine secretion. Only 13 cases of dopamine-secreting phaeochromocytoma have been published so far, including 4 with clinical symptoms resembling those of this patient. The metabolic and hormonal effects of high plasma dopamine levels were studied, and responses similar to those observed with TRH stimulation by dopamine infusions were obtained: TSH and prolactin responses were inhibited, and GH was increased. This case underlines the need for catecholamine assays, including dopamine, in patients with unexplained fever and apparently non-secretory adrenal tumour.