Laparoscopic excision of Bilateral Adrenal Pheochromocytoma

Tumours of the adrenal gland, other than neuroblastoma, are extremely rare in children. Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine secreting tumors derived from the adrenal gland which presents with symptoms of palpitation, sweating and headache.

A 12 year old boy was admitted in emergency with c/o abnormal limb movements and severe headache. He was evaluated and was found to have high blood pressure. The child was stabilized and BP was controlled. The child was then evaluated and CECT abdomen/MIBG scan were suggestive of Bilateral Pheocromocytoma. The child underwent Laparoscopic bilateral adrenalectomy after adequate preoperative preparation. The child is on regular follow up with normal blood pressure.

Pheochromocytomas are rare adrenal functioning tumors. They need extensive preoperative evaluation and management. Minimal access surgery has many advantages in the management. It minimises intraopertaive and postoperative complications. Also it avoids large incision especially in cases of bilateral tumors.

A multidisciplinary team of Pediatric Surgeon, Pediatric intensivist and Pediatric endocrinologist is required for successful planning and management of such cases.