[Repeated postoperative hypoglycemia in a woman with multiple pheochromocytomas]

A case of repeated postoperative hypoglycemia following removal of multiple pheochromocytomas in a non-diabetic 23-year-old woman is presented. Although the hypoglycemia did not occur after the first operation, it was recognized after the second and third operations. The blood sugar levels were 54 mg.dl-1 and 25 mg.dl-1, respectively, and continuous intravenous glucose infusion was necessary for about 15 hours postoperatively. This complication may be related to sudden withdrawal of catecholamines. Frequent monitoring of blood sugar level as well as cardiovascular system is important for perioperative management of pheochromocytoma.