INSULINOMA
Insulinoma is a tumour that overproduces insulin and causes severe hypoglycaemia.
What is insulinoma?
Insulinoma is a tumour that is derived from the beta cells in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas. This tumour makes extra insulin and causes severe hypoglycaemia.
TopIs insulinoma a malignant tumour?
In 80% of cases, insulinomas are benign tumours and only 10% are malignant.
TopWhat are the symptoms of insulinoma?
- Hypoglycemia
- Fatigue
- Amnesia
- Loss of consciousness
How is insulinoma diagnosed?
The diagnosis of insulinoma is based on history, physical examination, hormonal analysis with special endocrine tests, imaging studies, some of which are invasive. The diagnosis of insulinoma requires a specialised centre and staff with experience and expertise in both the investigation and interpretation of the results.
TopWhat are the causes of insulinoma?
Insulinoma can be:
- sporadic
- or part of a genetic syndrome, MEN1 syndrome
How is insulinoma treated?
The treatment of insulinoma is primarily:
- Resection of the tumour
- Medical therapy to control symptomatic hypoglycemia
- Embolization
- Chemotherapy for malignant tumours