Cushing's syndrome in pregnancy in which laparoscopic adrenalectomy was safely performed by a retroperitoneal approach

Abstract

Introduction Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the standard treatment for adrenal tumors caused by Cushing's syndrome. However, few pregnant women have undergone adrenalectomy because of the risk of general anesthesia and surgery. Case presentation A 28‐year‐old woman presented with gradually worsening Cushing's signs at around 12 weeks of pregnancy. Magnetic resonance imaging displayed a 38‐mm left adrenal tumor, which was the cause of the adrenal Cushing's syndrome. Metyrapone was started, which increased androgen levels. Since the management of Cushing's syndrome by medication alone is challenging, unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy by a retroperitoneal approach was performed at 23 weeks of the pregnancy. No perioperative complications were noted. Conclusion Adrenalectomy is considered safe in pregnant women with Cushing's syndrome. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy by retroperitoneal approach should be chosen and performed between 14 and 30 weeks of pregnancy to prevent mother and fetal complications.

Keywords

• adrenalectomy
• Cushing's syndrome
• pregnancy
• retroperitoneal approach