PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA IN A YOUNG PERSON AS A CAUSE OF SECONDARY HYPERTENSION: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) is one of the most prevalent chronic non-communicable diseases worldwide, with secondary hypertension being less frequent and generally associated with identifiable clinical causes, such as pheochromocytoma. Pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor originating from chromaffin cells, characterized by the excessive production of catecholamines, resulting in paroxysmal hypertensive crises and autonomic manifestations. This study describes the case of a young patient treated at a public hospital in Minas Gerais, who began presenting with nausea, vomiting, tachypnea, and extreme tachycardia in October 2021. Initially diagnosed with COVID-19 associated with anaphylaxis, he required hospitalization in an intensive care unit. After discharge, he continued outpatient follow-up with recurrent episodes of tachycardia, hypertension, and sweating, in addition to mild left ventricular hypertrophy on echocardiography and hypertensive peaks that were difficult to control. Despite the use of multiple antihypertensive drugs, the symptoms persisted, prompting further etiological investigation. Diagnostic confirmation was obtained through laboratory tests showing a significant elevation of urinary catecholamines and metanephrines, associated with imaging findings compatible with extraadrenal pheochromocytoma. This case reinforces the importance of clinical suspicion and a systematic diagnostic approach in young patients with resistant hypertension and symptoms suggestive of catecholaminergic discharge, aiming for early diagnosis and appropriate management.