Simple adrenal cyst masquerading clinically silent giant cystic pheochromocytoma

Abstract

Pheochromocytoma (PCC) may present as a cystic or solid tumour. Cystic PCCs are difficult to differentiate from simple cysts in the absence of classic symptoms of PCCs. Cystic nature develops due to intralesional bleeding and necrosis. We present a case of young man without any comorbidity who was diagnosed as a simple adrenal cyst and planned for laparoscopic excision but found to be functional PCC during the time of surgery only. The patient was managed with extensive monitoring and use of multiple drugs to control blood pressure. Surgery was completed without any complication laparoscopically and postoperative period was also uneventful. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of cystic PCC. Our case also shows the importance of functional imaging like metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan in doubtful cases of adrenal cysts when other biochemical markers are unremarkable to diagnosis. We emphasise the importance of meticulous preparation for any intraoperative disasters even for apparently simple adrenal cyst.