Pheochromocytoma complicated with acute myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction: a case report - Report - MDSpire

Pheochromocytoma complicated with acute myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction: a case report

  • By

  • Yi Zhang

  • Fei Zhou

  • Hao Zhou

  • Jian Deng

  • Xiaoyu Chen

  • Xuemei Li

  • Rui Wang

  • May 22, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Acute Myocardial Infarction and Cerebral Infarction Associated with Pheochromocytoma

Overview

This report details a rare case of a 70-year-old female patient who experienced both acute myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction due to pheochromocytoma. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing catecholamine-induced systemic vasculopathy in patients presenting with unexplained multi-organ ischemia.

Background

Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor that leads to excessive catecholamine release, resulting in severe cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications. The condition can be easily misdiagnosed due to the lack of typical symptoms, which complicates clinical management. Understanding the relationship between pheochromocytoma and acute cardiovascular events is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • The patient presented with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and subsequent cerebral infarction.
  • Laboratory tests revealed significantly elevated urinary vanillylmandelic acid levels, indicating catecholamine excess.
  • Coronary computed tomography angiography showed only mild stenosis, suggesting a type 2 myocardial infarction.
  • The patient was treated with antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy, followed by emergency thrombectomy for cerebral infarction.
  • Long-term management included oral phenoxybenzamine for blood pressure control.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider pheochromocytoma in patients with severe hypertension and unexplained multi-organ ischemia. Early identification and appropriate management, including the use of alpha-blockers and tailored antithrombotic strategies, are essential for improving patient outcomes.

Conclusion

This case underscores the need for heightened awareness of pheochromocytoma as a potential cause of acute cardiovascular events. Timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly influence prognosis in affected patients.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2022 -- Cardiogenic Shock Induced by Spontaneous Rupture of a Pheochromocytoma: A Case Study of a Rare and Critical Condition
  2. A Systematic Review of Composite Phaeochromocytomas in Existing Literature, 2021
  3. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2025 -- Comparative Analysis of Postoperative Results in Patients with Normotensive versus Hypertensive Pheochromocytomas: A Global Perspective
  4. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2025 -- Evaluating Pediatric Patients with Potential Pheochromocytoma or Paraganglioma in Comparison to Neuroblastoma
  5. Biochemical Assessment of PPGL | Endocrine Society
  6. Hub - 2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes - Professional Heart Daily | American Heart Association
  7. Biochemical Assessment of PPGL | Endocrine Society
  8. Hub - 2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes - Professional Heart Daily | American Heart Association
  9. PowerPoint Presentation

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