Pheochromocytoma-induced segmental myocardial dysfunction mimicking an acute myocardial infarction in a patient with normal coronary arteries.

Abstract

We report a case of pheochromocytoma-induced segmental myocardial dysfunction and electrocardiographic abnormalities mimicking an acute anterior myocardial infarction, probably due to coronary spasm. Coronary angiography showed normal coronaries, and the electrocardiographic and echocardiographic changes resolved completely after therapy with an alpha-adrenergic blocker and tumor removal. Our case illustrates the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with an unexpected myocardial event and a hypertensive crisis.

• Authors: Eduardo S Darzé, Roberto L Von Sohsten
• Journal: Arquivos brasileiros de cardiologia (Arq Bras Cardiol) Vol. 82 Issue 2 Pg. 178-80, 175-7 (Feb 2004) ISSN: 0066-782X [Print] Brazil
• PMID: 15042254 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists

Topics

• Adrenal Gland Neoplasms (complications, therapy)
• Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists (therapeutic use)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Female
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Myocardial Infarction (diagnosis, etiology)
• Pheochromocytoma (complications, therapy)
• Ventricular Dysfunction (diagnosis, drug therapy, etiology)