A case report highlights the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma in recurrent myocarditis, emphasizing timely intervention to prevent life-threatening outcomes.
Introduction: Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-secreting tumour that can mimic acute myocarditis and lead to life-threatening cardiogenic shock. We present a case of recurrent fulminant myocarditis ultimately attributed to an adrenal pheochromocytoma. Case presentation: A 34-year-old woman with no cardiovascular risk factors experienced recurrent myocarditis over 18 months. During her third episode, she developed cardiogenic shock with multiorgan failure. An abdominal ultrasound revealed a left adrenal mass, confirmed by CT scan. Elevated urinary catecholamine metabolites established the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. Following emergency adrenalectomy, her haemodynamic status stabilised, and she recovered fully. Discussion: Recurrent myocarditis or unexplained cardiogenic shock should prompt consideration of secondary causes, including pheochromocytoma. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are key to favourable outcomes.
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Asmae et al. (2025) studied this question.
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