insulinoma
Pronunciation: in-su-li-NO-mah
A rare insulin-secreting neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas that causes hypoglycemic episodes.
Full Definition
An insulinoma is a neuroendocrine tumor that autonomously secretes insulin, leading to recurrent hypoglycemic episodes and Whipple's triad. Most insulinomas are benign, solitary pancreatic tumors less than 2 cm in diameter. The diagnosis is established through demonstration of inappropriate insulin secretion during hypoglycemia, typically using a supervised 72-hour fasting test. Clinical presentation includes neuroglycopenic symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness, along with autonomic symptoms like sweating and palpitations. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice for localized tumors, with excellent long-term outcomes for benign lesions.
Usage
Usage note: Most common functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor.
In Context
- "The 72-hour fasting test confirmed inappropriate insulin secretion consistent with insulinoma." — Endocrinology evaluation
- "Intraoperative ultrasound successfully localized the small insulinoma in the pancreatic tail." — Surgical report