Pseudopheochromocytoma usually presents with the signs and symptoms suggestive of pheochromocytoma, yet investigations fail to show any evidence of the tumor. This case reports a man who presented with severe abdominal pain and hypertension without previous symptoms of anxiety, tremor or palpitations at the time of presentation. Initial 24 hours urinary metanephrines were raised which suggested a diagnosis of hemorrhage into a pheochromocytoma. Clinicians need to be aware of this scenario if unnecessary surgery is to be avoided.
Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of urinary free metanephrines, vanillyl mandelic acid, and catecholamines and plasma catecholamines for diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007;92(12):4602-08.
Biochemical diagnosis of pheochromocytoma: Which test is best? JAMA 2002;287(11):1427-34.
The concept of pseudopheochromocytoma. Munch Med Wochenschr 1956;98(15):531-34.
