Pheochromocytoma mimicking both acute coronary syndrome and sepsis: a case report

ABSTRACT

To present an atypical manifestation in a patient with pheochromocytoma. A 48-year-old man presented with chest pain, fever and leukocytosis. Elevated cardiac biomarkers and diffuse ST-T abnormalities on electrocardiography suggested myocardial infarction. However, coronary angiography showed normal coronary arteries. Abdominal computed tomography revealed a left adrenal tumor of 6.7 x 6.8 cm. Paroxysmal fluctuation of blood pressure raised the suspicion of pheochromocytoma, which was further supported by elevated urine catecholamine levels. He underwent left adrenalectomy and pathological findings confirmed the diagnosis. Pheochromocytoma should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis in a patient with symptoms suggestive of both acute coronary syndrome and sepsis