Pheochromocytoma in pregnancy: considerations for the advanced practice nurse

Pheochromocytoma, a rare finding in pregnancy, is associated with significant risks for maternal fetal morbidity and mortality when undetected antenatally. The disease is commonly mistaken for hypertensive conditions of pregnancy. The advanced practice nurse may play a crucial role in early diagnosis based on a careful history and physical examination, clinical suspicion, diagnostic testing, and patient education. The management of a pregnant woman with pheochromocytoma is individualized for the woman, depending on gestational age, tumor location, and stabilization of the disease. A collaborative medical, surgical, and nursing team approach is needed. Pharmacologic intervention and surgical resection of the tumor(s) are the treatments of choice. Long-term followup is essential to detect malignancy and recurrence.