Recurrent severe acute apical-sparing left ventricular dysfunction in a young woman: don't forget pheochromocytoma

Abstract

A 35-year-old woman was admitted for second cardiogenic shock. She had no cardiovascular risk factors. Recurrent acute myocarditis was suggested. Recurrent acute myocardial dysfunctions in a young patient suggested pheochromocytoma. Initial trans-thoracic echocardiography showed a typical severe basal and mid-ventricular left ventricular dysfunction but preserved apical contractility. Total CT-scan evidenced a right suprarenal mass advocating for a pheochromocytoma. Biology confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. These images illustrate the rare but acute and typical clinical outcomes, and echocardiography findings.