Hypersecretory Paraganglioma Presenting as Acute Aortic Dissection

Abstract

Abrupt, transient, and severe hypertension evoked by catecholamine-secreting tumors has the potential to manifest as acute aortic dissection. We report the successful, multidisciplinary management of an insidious, extra-adrenal, functional paraganglioma, suddenly presenting as acute aortic dissection. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.)

Keywords

• aorta
• chest pain
• dissection
• hypertension
• post-operative
• thoracic