Functional bladder paraganglioma: An odd presentation of haematuria

Abstract

Introduction:

Bladder paraganglioma is a rare tumour of chromaffin cell origin. Few cases have been reported in the literature.

Case report:

A 59-year-old female with no known co-morbidities presented with catecholamine-related symptoms, haematuria, elevated blood pressures and raised urine metanephrines. A sonar and computed tomography scan confirmed a bladder mass shown to be active on iodine-131 meta-iodobenzylguanidine. Partial cystectomy was performed.

Conclusion:

Although bladder paraganglioma is rare, clinicians need to be aware of how such cases may present and the necessary work-up to confirm the diagnosis. Surgery is the treatment of choice, and long-term follow-up of these patients is necessary to detect recurrence or metastases.

Level of evidence:

4.