Ogilvie Syndrome Revealing a Pheochromocytoma: A Rare Intersection of Two Entities

TL;DR

A rare case shows how Ogilvie syndrome can reveal a pheochromocytoma, a tumor that causes dangerous high blood pressure.

Contribution

This case report highlights a rare and fatal presentation of pheochromocytoma through gastrointestinal symptoms.

Findings

A 33-year-old woman with Ogilvie syndrome was found to have an underlying pheochromocytoma.

The patient experienced a fatal hypertensive crisis despite initial treatment.

The case emphasizes the need to consider pheochromocytoma in pseudo-obstructive syndromes.

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor arising from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla and characterized by excessive catecholamine secretion. Gastrointestinal manifestations are uncommon and may occasionally lead to the diagnosis. We report the case of a 33-year-old woman presenting with acute intestinal obstruction secondary to Ogilvie syndrome, which ultimately revealed an underlying pheochromocytoma. Imaging demonstrated a left adrenal mass, and biochemical assays confirmed elevated catecholamine levels. Despite appropriate initial management, the patient developed a fatal hypertensive crisis. This case highlights the importance of recognizing pseudo-obstructive syndromes as rare but life-threatening presentations of pheochromocytoma.

Figures