Abstract
Pheochromocytomas represent a rare, but potentially devastating, cause of hypertension among pregnant patients. Inherited predisposition to these tumors requires vigilant screening, especially in women of child-bearing age. We present an illustrative case of a multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A patient who was successfully surgically treated for a pheochromocytoma during pregnancy. A review of the existing, English-language literature and screening guidelines was undertaken. Pheochromocytomas presenting during pregnancy, can be safely and effectively treated with laparoscopic surgery, allowing the maintenance of a normal pregnancy. Screening of patients with inherited endocrinopathies that predispose to adrenal medullary tumors must be adapted to maximize the opportunity to detect a pheochromocytoma in the pregravid state. More frequent testing and a lower threshold for biochemical or radiologic investigation are suggested for women in their reproductive years.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 82-84 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | World Journal of Endocrine Surgery |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2013 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Surgery
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
- Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging