Pheochromocytoma: The Great Masquerader

Abstract

Catecholamine-secreting tumors occur with equal frequency in men and women, primarily in the fourth and fifth decades. The associated hypertension may be sustained or paroxysmal, and patients who are diagnosed in the presymptomatic stage may have normal blood pressure. These tumors can be lethal unless they are diagnosed early and treated appropriately. Numerous disorders can mimic pheochromocytoma, leading to diagnostic dilemma. Described here is a case which was misdiagnosed for 5 years as anxiety, panic attacks, cervical spondylosis, vasomotor symptoms of menopause, arrhythmia and even acute coronary syndrome. Therefore, enhanced adrenal awareness is the need of the hour, to catch this “great masquerade”.