Pheochromocytoma Masquerading as “Diabetic Ketoacidosis”

Abstract

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a routinely encountered diagnosis in medicine. Physicians are trained early on to look for precipitants. Most clinicians assess for medication compliance, infection, ischemia, and the like. We present a case of pheochromocytoma presenting as “diabetic ketoacidosis.” The case serves as an example for broadening the differential diagnosis for patients with similar presentations. Additionally, the case helps inform our understanding of the so-called “stress reactions” that are commonly invoked in clinical rationale.

Unusual case of pheochromocytoma presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis

“…This may be due to the effect of tumour-secreted peptides other than catecholamines 15. The adrenal medulla secretes an array of hormonal peptides, including vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), parathyroid hormone (PTH)-related peptide, enkephalins, endorphins, substance P, interleukin-6, insulin-like growth factor 2, chromogranin A, calcitonin, corticotropin-releasing hormone, atrial natriuretic peptide, neuropeptide Y and catecholamines.…”