Insulinoma

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Endocrine glands Food and insulin release

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Insulinoma

Surgery is the preferred treatment for insulinoma. The location of the tumor is determined using diagnostic testing or surgical exploration. Single tumors are removed, but patients with multiple tumors usually require partial removal of the pancreas (partial pancreatectomy). At least 15% of the pancreas is left to prevent nutrient malabsorption from lack of pancreatic enzymes.

If no tumor is found during surgery or a patient is not a candidate for surgery, the drug diazoxide may be given to lower insulin secretion and avoid hypoglycemia. A diuretic (water pill) is given with this medication to keep the person's body from retaining fluid.

Octreotide has been used to suppress insulin secretion in some patients. Medication is also used to stabilize the person prior to surgery.

In a majority of cases, the tumor is benign and surgery is effective. However, a severe hypoglycemic reaction or the spread of cancerous tumors to other organs can be fatal.

• severe hypoglycemic reaction
• cancerous tumor spreading (metastasis)

Call your health care provider if symptoms of insulinoma develop. Convulsions and decreased consciousness are emergency symptoms.

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