Optimizing hemodynamics with transcatheter arterial embolization in adrenal pheochromocytoma rupture

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma rupture is rare, and emergent adrenalectomy is associated with a high mortality. We herein report a patient with pheochromocytoma rupture who was stabilized by transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) and subsequently underwent elective surgery. A 45-year-old man presented with the sudden onset of left lateral abdominal pain, headache, chest discomfort, high blood pressure, and adrenal hemorrhaging on enhanced abdominal computed tomography. TAE was performed under a provisional diagnosis of pheochromocytoma rupture. Following oral doxazosin, he underwent elective left adrenalectomy four and a half months after TAE. Stabilizing the hemodynamic status by TAE before adrenalectomy is a viable option for treating pheochromocytoma rupture.