Undiagnosed Phaeochromocytoma in Cardiac Surgery

Abstract

Unsuspected phaeochromocytoma diagnosed during cardiac cases presents as a life-threatening situation. Unfortunately, phaeochromocytoma is not usually diagnosed until after the events has occurred. Based on a handful of cases, mortality can range from 25%–95%. Intraoperatively, patients become profoundly hypertensive requiring input from anaesthetics to control blood pressure, which adds more time to bypass and overall operation time. This case series presents two cases of undiagnosed phaeochromocytoma during coronary artery bypass graft, one of whom passed away. Given the limited studies, this will contribute greatly so that others will learn when to suspect and how to treat if diagnosis is made.