Two cases of cardiomyopathy associated with phaeochromocytoma successfully managed with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO)

Phaeochromocytoma, a rare neuroendocrine tumour of chromaffin cell origin, is characterised by catecholamine excess. Clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic disease to life-threatening multiorgan dysfunction. Catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy is a dreaded complication with high lethality. While there is lack of evidence-based guidelines for use of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) in the management of this condition, limited to case reports and small case series, V-A ECMO has been reported as 'bridge to recovery' therapy, providing circulatory support in the initial period of stabilisation prior to surgery. We report on two patients presenting with catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy and circulatory collapse who were successfully treated with V-A ECMO for 5 and 6 days, respectively, providing initial haemodynamic support. After stabilisation and introduction of alpha-blockade, both cases had favourable outcomes, with successful laparoscopic adrenalectomies on days 62 and 83 of admission, respectively. Our case reports provide further support for the use of V-A ECMO in the treatment of such gravely ill patients. Learning points Phaeochromocytoma should be considered in the diagnosis of patients presenting with acute cardiomyopathy. Management of catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy is complex and requires multidisciplinary specialist input. Pre-operative management of phaeochromocytoma involves alpha-blockade; however, haemodynamic instability in the setting of cardiogenic shock can preclude alpha-blockade use. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a life-saving intervention which may be considered in cases of acute catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy and cardiogenic shock in order to provide the required haemodynamic support in the initial phase of treatment, enabling the administration of traditional pharmacological agents, including alpha-blockade.