Ectopic ACTH syndrome due to pheochromocytoma: case report and review of the literature

Yale J Biol Med. 1979 Mar-Apr;52(2):181-9.

Abstract

A 51-year-old female was diagnosed preoperatively to have a pheochromocytoma producing ACTH. This diagnosis was based upon her paroxysmal hypertension, hyperpigmentation, and hypokalemia. Elevated levels of serum and urine corticosteroids, plasma ACTH, urinary VMA, and catecholamines fell after a right adrenal pheochromocytoma was removed. Subsequently this tumor was found to have a high content of ACTH. Review of the literature indicates a mortality rate of 57% for this syndrome. Proper preoperative recognition and management can result in total cure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / complications
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / pathology
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / metabolism*
  • Catecholamines / urine
  • Female
  • Hormones, Ectopic / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pheochromocytoma / complications
  • Pheochromocytoma / metabolism*
  • Pheochromocytoma / pathology

Substances

  • Catecholamines
  • Hormones, Ectopic
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone