Metastatic pheochromocytoma: An unusual case and its multidisciplinary management.

Abstract

We describe the case of an 80-year-old man with sporadic right pheochromocytoma who developed metastatic disease six years after initial diagnosis. Despite adequate blood pressure control and initial biochemical cure criteria after surgery, elevated chromogranin A levels were detected during routine screening, which anticipated elevated 24-h urine metanephrines. Subsequent imaging tests revealed metastatic lesions in the lungs, liver, prostate and lymph nodes. The patient underwent systemic treatment with [131I] MIBG, which resulted in a decrease in chromogranin A levels, achieving radiological and clinical stability. This case highlights the importance of long-term follow-up and biochemical monitoring for early detection of tumor recurrence in patients with pheochromocytoma, emphasizing the need for individualized treatment strategies and interdisciplinary care.