PMC3693650_01
Computed Tomography and Histological Images of the Pheochromocytoma. A: Abdominal computed tomography showing a left adrenal mass of 50 mm in diameter with rounded, well-defined edges, and hyperdense areas of cystic necrosis inside (asterisk). B: Histological panoramic view of the pheochromocitoma. On the left side of the picture there is a normal adrenal gland on which sits the tumor with a large nodule with areas of hemorrhagic aspect, especially in the tumor periphery.
ijem-11-48-g001.jpg
PMC3693650_01_ijem-11-48-g001.jpg
fig947
Despite having the diagnosis of non Q myocardial infarction secondary to cocaine abuse, due to persistent abdominal pain, abdominal CT was performed, showing a left round adrenal mass of 50 mm diameter, well-defined edges and hyperdense areas of cystic necrosis inside (Figure 1A). 24-hour urine catecholamine collection showed high levels of noradrenaline [3542 mcg/24h (NV: 0-76)] and adrenaline [1454 mcg/24h (NV: 0-18.0)] with normal dopamine levels [304 mcg/24h (NV: 0-390)]. Histology evaluation confirmed the presence of a pheochromocytoma without capsular invasion and a low mitotic index (Figure 1B).