Thunderclap-like headache triggered by micturition and angina as an initial manifestation of bladder pheochromocytoma. A case report.

BACKGROUND

Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-producing tumor characterized by hypertension, headache, tachycardia, excessive diaphoresis and angina. The thunderclap headache is so named because the pain strikes suddenly and severely. Although the symptoms of bladder pheochromocytoma are rather evident, the diagnosis of this rare neuroendocrine tumor can be missed.

METHODS

This study reports the case of a woman diagnosed with bladder pheochromocytoma who experienced thunderclap headache triggered by micturition and angina as an initial manifestation.

CONCLUSIONS

This case study suggests that thunderclap headache and angina occurring concurrently with sudden blood pressure elevation during or immediately after micturition are important diagnostic clues for bladder pheochromocytoma.