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September 10, 2025Open Access

A case report: catecholamine-secreting adrenal tumor-inducing cardiomyopathy

Key Points

Catecholamine-secreting adrenal tumors can cause severe cardiomyopathy in patients, even without a history of hypertension.
The case involved a 47-year-old female who experienced hypertensive crisis and elevated norepinephrine levels during diagnosis.
Surgical resection of the adrenal tumor led to normalization of blood pressure and significant improvement in cardiac function.
Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical in preventing complications associated with catecholamine-secreting tumors.

Abstract

Introduction: Catecholamine-secreting adrenal tumors (pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma) are rare neoplasms causing paroxysmal hypertension, metabolic disturbances, and cardiomyopathy. Diagnosis relies on biochemical tests (plasma-free metanephrines) and imaging (CT/MRI). Definitive treatment involves tumor resection with perioperative hemodynamic control. Case summary: A 47-year-old female with no prior hypertension presented with chest pain, hypertensive crisis (180/100 mmHg), hyperglycemia, and metabolic acidosis. Elevated norepinephrine (312.33 pg/mL) and abdominal MRI confirmed a right adrenal tumor (22×22×20 mm). A surgical resection was performed. Postoperatively, blood pressure normalized, and cardiac function improved (EF increased from 47% to 70% at the 2-month follow-up). Conclusion: Catecholamine-secreting tumors may induce severe cardiomyopathy even without a hypertension history. Early diagnosis and prompt surgery are critical for cardiac recovery and preventing complications.

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