Reversible catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy presenting as acute pulmonary edema in a patient with pheochromocytoma

Abstract

Cardiac injury caused by elevated levels of circulating catecholamines is a well-known phenomenon. We report a patient who, secondary to transient regional left ventricular dysfunction (despite normal coronary arteries), developed acute pulmonary edema. Echocardiography showed marked anteroapical hypokinesia and an apical thrombus. The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was made by plasma catecholamine levels, abdominal ultrasound and finally at operation. The patient recovered completely long before surgical intervention was undertaken.