Paraganglioma retroperitoneal inter-aorto-cavo Inter-aorto-cava retroperitoneal paraganglioma

Introduction: Paragangliomas are tumors originated from the chromaffin cells of the neural crest. They can be observed from the base of the skull to the bladder or along the sympathetic ganglionar chain. Retroperitoneal paragangliomas can represent a true surgical challenge due to their tight relation to large size vessels. Presentation of the case: Woman, of 40 years of age, who, three years before admittance, had presented paroxysmal crises of severe arterial hypertension. The abdominal TC scan revealed the presence of an inter-aorto-cava retroperitoneal mass of 4 cm in diameter compatible with a paraganglioma. The patient was subjected to surgery after having been prepared with calcium channel blockers during two weeks. Surgery confirmed the presence of the inter-aortocava paranganglioma of 5 cm in diameter that displaced the cava vein to the front; the tumor was successfully resected. The patient required intensive care and was discharged on the 7 th day after surgery without complications. At 24 months, her blood pressure is normal and without recurrence. Conclusion: Retroperitoneal paragangliomas are not frequent tumors, their surgical treatment is difficult. A multidisciplinary specialized team and close monitoring during the perioperative period are required.