Astrocytoma Mimicking the Features of Pheochromocytoma

Abstract

ASTROCYTOMA is one of many neoplasms (particularly those of neuroectodermal origin) that may be associated with pheochromocytoma.1 2 3 4 Other intracranial tumors, especially those arising in the posterior fossa, may mimic the clinical symptoms, but not the specific biochemical features of pheochromocytoma.5 Any brain tumor may cause systemic hypertension and mildly increased catecholamine production.6 , 7 Case ReportA 10-year-old boy was admitted to the University of Virginia Hospital on April 5, 1970, with a 4-year history of intermittent nasal speech, mild dysphagia and left-sided frontal headaches. During the year before admission progressively severe episodic emesis, generalized diaphoresis, flushing with a prominent periorbital venous . . .