Pheochromocytoma diagnosed during pregnancy: a case report

Gynecol Endocrinol. 2020 Jul;36(7):650-653. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1754392. Epub 2020 Apr 21.

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine producing tumor. During pregnancy, this tumor can mimic gestational hypertension, preeclampsia or eclampsia. We present a case of a 38-year-old, multiparous woman admitted at 36 weeks of gestation due to hypertension. After cesarean section, she developed an unexplainable worsening of her hypertension that was resistant to the traditional therapy. Additional investigation lead to the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. This case highlights the importance of an early diagnosis and the need of a multidisciplinary approach for the improvement of pregnancy outcomes in patients with pheochromocytoma.

Keywords: Pregnancy; catecholamine; hypertension; pheochromocytoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / surgery
  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced / diagnosis
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced / etiology
  • Italy
  • Pheochromocytoma / diagnosis*
  • Pheochromocytoma / surgery
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / surgery