Anesthetic Management of Pheochromocytoma in Pediatric Patient—Case Report

Abstract

Background: Pediatric pheochromocytoma is very rare, accounting for only about 1% of pediatric hypertension. Case Presentation: We presented a case of pediatric pheochromocytoma in a 12-year-old girl undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy, with the aim of highlighting an anesthetic challenge. Conclusion: Preoperative screening of hereditary conditions, investigations for end-organ dysfunction, preoperative blood pressure optimization, intensive intraoperative hemodynamic management and good communication with surgeons were the cornerstones for this successful surgery.

Anesthetic challenges for pheochromocytoma surgery in pediatric patients

“…[ 2 ] These tumors secrete excess catecholamine which needs to be optimized before the surgery to prevent hypertensive crisis and malignant arrhythmias. [ 1 ] Catecholamine release increases during intubation, surgical stress, and tumor handling. [ 3 ] Intubation stress manifesting as tachycardia and hypertension can be well handled with esmolol boluses.…”

“…Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-releasing tumor, very rare in the pediatric population. [ 1 ] The occurrence of pediatric pheochromocytoma is 0.3 cases per million per year with a median age of 6 years to 14 years. [ 2 ] These tumors release catecholamines including epinephrine and norepinephrine.…”