Paravesicular paraganglioma manifesting as chronic hypertension and hypertensive crisis

We describe a woman with a rare extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma who presented with a chronic hypertension and a hypertensive crisis initiated by an invasive cardiac catheterization procedure. We present a case report, review the relevant literature, and discuss management strategies. A 49-year-old woman with a 4-year history of hypertension experienced a hypertensive crisis following a catheterization procedure. Evaluation of the episode led to identification of a catecholaminesecreting pelvic paraganglioma as confirmed by 24-hour urine fractioned metanephrines and catecholamines as well as magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was carefully pharmacologically prepared for surgical resection. Paragangliomas may exhibit 30% inheritability, and the patient was counseled on genetic testing for early diagnosis of tumor in family members. Catecholamine-secreting paragangliomas are rare tumors that may present as hypertensive emergencies. Diagnosis relies on biochemical testing followed by imaging to avoid crisis induced by invasive procedures. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice, and pharmacological preparation for surgery begins at least 1 week prior to the procedure to ensure adequate adrenergic blockade. Following treatment for a paraganglioma, genetic testing should be recommended for early identification of affected family members.