David Hobby, M. Syed, Vaishali Doshi

2026.2.1Annals of Internal Medicine Clinical Cases

DOI: 10.7326/aimcc.2025.0829

Abstract

Bladder paragangliomas represent less than 0.05% of bladder tumors, with familial metastatic cases being exceptionally rare. This case outlines a relatively healthy 44-year-old woman presenting with classic symptoms of paraganglioma that initially manifested as cardiac dysrhythmia, new-onset heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and hypercoagulability. Subsequent questioning and genetic testing identified a family history of paragangliomas and a pathogenic SDHB pR46 mutation. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of signs and symptoms associated with catecholamine-secreting tumors, indications for diagnostic testing, and appropriate genetic testing to prevent devastating complications associated with multisystem failure.

Citation format

HOBBY, David; SYED, M.; DOSHI, Vaishali. Familial metastatic bladder paraganglioma with multisystem complications. Annals of Internal Medicine Clinical Cases, 2026.