Intracardiac pheochromocytoma with dual coronary blood supply: case report and literature review

Abstract

An intracardiac pheochromocytoma is extremely rare. This patient first presented postpartum at age 28 with clinical signs, symptoms and biochemical evidence suspicious for the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. Multiple radiologic studies and laparotomy failed to confirm the diagnosis. Some 20 years later the patient presented with complaints of chest pain, palpitations, and flushing. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated a 'tumor blush' superior to the left atrium with a blood supply derived from the coronary arteries. Open-heart surgery was performed and the tumor successfully removed.