An asymptomatic catecholamine-secreting pheochromocytoma☆

Abstract This case for the first time documents an asymptomatic, catecholamine-secreting pheochromocytoma. The patient's only complaint was headache of 2 years' duration that was not typical of a pheochromocytoma. A variety of tests revealed no functional pathology of thyroid, heart, liver, kidneys and adrenal cortex. The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was based on the unexpected finding of elevated plasma and urinary catecholamine levels. During 17 days of hospitalizatlon, the patient experienced no headaches or other symptoms, and her cardiovascular status was normal even though catecholamine levels were elevated in plasma and urine. Manipulation of the tumors during operation produced about a threefold increase in plasma catecholamines but no change in cardiovascular status even though the patient was not receiving adrenergic blocking agents. It is possible that the socalled "nonfunctioning pheochromocytoma" is a misnomer.