DIAGNÓSTICO DE FEOCROMOCITOMA EM CÃO: RELATO DE CASO

Abstract

Pheochromocytomas are rare tumors originating in the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla, with the potential to produce, store and secrete catecholamines. Ante-mortem diagnosis is challenging due to the paroxysmal nature of clinical signs, the high cost and complexity of the necessary tests. In this report, we describe the case of a Maltese dog, male, 12 years old, weighing 4 kg, treated at the UFU Veterinary Hospital, presenting intense itching, weight loss and easy fatigue, in addition to cardiac and respiratory signs. Additional tests were carried out, including ultrasound, computed tomography and cardiological evaluation, which helped in the diagnostic suspicion, which was later confirmed by the measurement of urinary catecholamines. Although surgery is the treatment of choice, the owner opted for clinical management, using symptomatic treatment, which demonstrated effectiveness in the patient's stability. This work aims to report a case of pheochromocytoma in a dog, addressing the diagnostic challenges and therapeutic options adopted. It is concluded that, although surgical intervention is the ideal approach, symptomatic conservative treatment may be a viable alternative to stabilize patients in whom surgery is not possible.