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Pheochromocytoma associated ventricular tachycardia blocked with atenolol

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Abstract

Ventricular tachycardia in patients with pheochromocytoma is rare. We report a patient with a norepinephrine-secreting extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma who had exercise induced ventricular tachycardia. Prior to diagnosis, the patient was treated with a selective ß1 blocker, atenolol, which resulted in suppression of the dysrhythmia and amelioration of the hypertension. This is the first reported case of selective ß blockade suppressing ventricular tachycardia in a patient with a pheochromocytoma. Electrocardiographic abnormalities described in patients with pheochromocytoma are reviewed.

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The opinions and assertions contained herein are the private ones of the authors and are not to be construed as official or as reflecting the views of the Navy Department or the Naval service at large.

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Michaels, R.D., Hays, J.H., O’Brian, J.T. et al. Pheochromocytoma associated ventricular tachycardia blocked with atenolol. J Endocrinol Invest 13, 943–947 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03349666

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03349666

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