Hypertension in children with neurogenic tumors

Fifty-nine children with neurogenic tumors were examined for the presence of hypertension. Eleven of the 59 (19%) were found to have elevated blood pressure levels at the time of diagnosis or with progression of their disease. Several antihypertensive agents produced poor or only partial pressure control. All blood pressure levels returned to normal values after tumor excision or administration of effective antitumor therapy. There was no correlation of hypertension with urinary catecholamine levels. The etiologies of hypertension in children with neurogenic tumors are discussed.