insulinoma

Full Definition

An insulinoma is a functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor that secretes excessive amounts of insulin, leading to episodes of hypoglycemia. These tumors are the most common cause of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia in adults and are typically small, solitary, and benign. Diagnosis involves demonstrating Whipple's triad (symptoms of hypoglycemia, documented low glucose, and symptom relief with glucose administration) along with inappropriate insulin secretion. Most insulinomas are sporadic, though they can occur as part of MEN1 syndrome.

In Context

• "The 1.5-cm insulinoma was localized to the pancreatic tail on endoscopic ultrasound." — imaging report
• "Biochemical testing confirmed insulinoma with elevated C-peptide and proinsulin levels during hypoglycemic episodes." — laboratory report