[An incidental finding of retrocaval extraadrenal pheochromocytoma]

As part of diagnostic work-up of a 71-year-old patient with resistant hypertension, an extraadrenal mass was found. After further imaging and biochemical evaluation an extraadrenal pheochromocytoma was diagnosed and after alpha-receptor blockade was removed via posterior approach laparoscopically in the course. The pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-producing tumor with an incidence of 1-2 per 100 000. In about 1-25 % it is located extraadrenal. Establishing the diagnosis is dependent on the demonstration of significant catecholamine excess. Afterwards imaging with CT or MRI should be performed. After administration of alpha-blockers, the complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice.