Glucagonoma
MEN I - glucagonomaGlucagonoma is a very rare tumor of the islet cells of the pancreas, which leads to an excess of the hormone glucagon in the blood.
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Causes
Glucagonoma is usually cancerous (malignant). The cancer tends to spread and get worse if not treated.
This cancer affects some of the islet cells of the pancreas. As a result, the affected islet cells produce too much of the hormone glucagon.
The cause is unknown. Genetic factors play a role in some cases. A family history of the syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia type I (MEN I) is a risk factor.
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Symptoms
Symptoms of glucagonoma may include any of the following:
- Glucose intolerance (body has problem breaking down sugars)
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
- Diarrhea
- Excessive thirst (due to high blood sugar)
- Frequent urination (due to high blood sugar)
- Increased appetite
- Inflamed mouth and tongue
- Nighttime (nocturnal) urination
- Skin rash on face, abdomen, buttocks, or feet that comes and goes, and moves around
- Weight loss
In most cases, the cancer has already spread to the liver when it is diagnosed.
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Exams and Tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms.
Tests that may be done include:
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Treatment
Surgery to remove the tumor before it spreads is usually recommended. Chemotherapy may be done when surgery is not possible.
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Support Groups
You can ease the stress of illness by joining a cancer support group. Sharing with others who have common experiences and problems can help you not feel alone.
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Outlook (Prognosis)
Approximately 60% of these tumors are cancerous. It is common for this cancer to spread to the liver. Only about 20% of people can be cured with surgery.
If the tumor is only in the pancreas and surgery to remove it is successful, people have a 5-year survival rate of 85%.
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Possible Complications
The cancer can spread to the liver. High blood sugar level can cause problems with metabolism and tissue damage.
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When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if you notice symptoms of glucagonoma.
References
Asban A, Patel AJ, Reddy S, Wang T, Balentine CJ, Chen H. Cancer of the endocrine system. In: Niederhuber JE, Armitage JO, Kastan MB, Doroshow JH, Tepper JE, eds. Abeloff's Clinical Oncology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 68.
National Cancer Institute website. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (islet cell tumors) treatment (PDQ) - health professional version. www.cancer.gov/types/pancreatic/hp/pnet-treatment-pdq. Updated August 19, 2022. Accessed December 15, 2022.
Newey PJ, Thakker RV. Multiple endocrine neoplasia. In: Melmed S, Auchus RJ, Goldfine AB, Koenig RJ, Rosen CJ, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 42.