# A Case of Pheochromocytoma Presenting With Acute Coronary Syndrome

## TL;DR

A rare case of pheochromocytoma was misdiagnosed as a heart attack, highlighting the importance of recognizing unusual symptoms for accurate diagnosis.

## Contribution

This case report adds to clinical awareness by illustrating pheochromocytoma presenting as acute coronary syndrome.

## Key findings

- The patient initially presented with symptoms resembling acute coronary syndrome.
- Further evaluation revealed the true cause to be pheochromocytoma.
- The case emphasizes the need for physicians to consider rare endocrine tumors in differential diagnoses.

## Abstract

Pheochromocytoma is a rare endocrine tumor originating from chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla, which leads to the overproduction of catecholamines. Most symptoms, ranging from simple headaches to life-threatening cardiac arrests, are due to excess catecholamines. Usually, patients present with persistent or paroxysmal hypertension, headaches, sweating, and palpitations. Here, we describe a case that initially presented as an acute coronary syndrome and was treated accordingly. However, she had a history of nocturnal awakenings and panic attacks, which she had ignored for a month. On further evaluation, it turned out to be pheochromocytoma. This case report will surely help physicians better diagnose and treat such cases.