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Catecholamine-Induced Myocardial Damage Associated with Phaeochromocytomas and Tetanus


AG Rose

Abstract

Four out of 7 patients dying of phaeochromocytomas and 7 out of 11 dying of tetanus had microscopic widespread myofibre damage (myofibrillar degeneration and 'myocytolysis). It is suggested that the myocardial lesions in both groups are induced by catecholamine excess. In those with phaeochromocytomas the excessive catecholamines come from the adrenal tumour, while with tetanus the catecholamines result from tetanus toxin-induced sympathetic nervous system overactivity. Prevention of catecholamine-induced myocardial lesions in both groups may be of importance with regard to prognosis.

S. Afr. Med. J., 48, 1285 (1974).

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eISSN: 2078-5135
print ISSN: 0256-9574