A Case of Generalized, Unrelenting Sweating Resulting in Social Isolation for Over Two Decades

Division

North Florida

Hospital

West Florida Hospital

Document Type

Case Report

Publication Date

7-23-2023

Keywords

catecholamines excess, hyperhidrosis, neuroendocrine tumor, pheochromocytoma, primary hyperhidrosis, social isolation, sweating, sympathetic block

Disciplines

Endocrine System Diseases | Internal Medicine | Neoplasms

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma, a rare neuroendocrine tumor, affects less than 1 in 100,000 people per year. Individuals with pheochromocytoma usually present with headache, diaphoresis, and tachycardia; however, diaphoresis occurs in less than half of the patients. Diaphoresis or chronic persistent hyperhidrosis can significantly impact patients' lives, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation, as in our case. We report a patient with chronic persistent sweating for over two decades as the predominant manifestation of pheochromocytoma and sympathetic overdrive, affecting her mental and social well-being. Importantly, we would like to demonstrate the significance of long-standing sweating, which can impact an individual's mental well-being and social life. Incorporating the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Measure-Axillary (HDSM-Ax) in the evaluation and management might be a relevant consideration. Pertinently, if medical measures and Botulinum toxin have failed to resolve excessive sweating, a thoracoscopic sympathetic block deserves consideration. Note that diaphoresis and hyperhidrosis, terms representing excessive sweating, will be used interchangeably.

Publisher or Conference

Cureus

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