Recognition and management of phaeochromocytoma

Phaeochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-secreting tumour with a high incidence of perioperative mortality if not managed appropriately. It benefits from an experienced structured medical, anaesthetic and surgical pathway. For anaesthetists successful and safe perioperative care requires knowledge of the pathophysiology of the condition combined with appropriate treatment strategies for preoperative preparation and management of acute release of catecholamines during periods of peri operative stress. Awareness of the perioperative presentation of phaeochromocytoma and associated signs and symptoms is important for all anaesthetists as the condition can present acutely during anaesthesia for other surgery. This has potentially a high mortality if not managed correctly.