Computed tomography evaluation of pheochromocytoma in pregnancy

Two cases representative of the spectrum of the problem of pheochromocytoma in pregnancy are presented. One patient was typical of many cases of pheochromocytoma not diagnosed until delivery, with resultant maternal and fetal death. Computed tomography accurately preoperatively localized a pheochromocytoma involving the organ of Zuckerkandl in the second patient, with subsequent uncomplicated removal of the tumor during a cesarean delivery. A discussion of pheochromocytomas in pregnancy and the relative risk and benefits of preoperative localization with computed tomography are presented.