Insulinoma

What is Insulinoma?

Insulinoma is a small tumor that develops in the pancreas and produces excessive amount of insulin. Usually, this tumor is non-cancerous and measures less than 2 cms in diameter. The function of pancreas is to make insulin in order to keep your blood sugar levels balanced. But due to the formation of Insulinoma in your pancreas, extra insulin is produced and body is not able to use it resulting in very low blood sugar levels. This is a serious condition and can be life-threatening.

What causes Insulinoma?

The exact cause of Insulinoma is not known. However, there are certain genetic diseases that can raise your chances of getting this disease, namely:

• Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
• Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome
• Neurofibromatosis

What are the symptoms of Insulinoma?

The signs and symptoms of Insulinoma are:

• Confusion
• Sweating
• Weakness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Recurrent headache
• Blurred vision
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Tremors
• Unexplained weight gain
• Convulsions/seizures
• Loss of consciousness or coma

How can Insulinoma be treated?

The primary treatment for Insulinoma is surgery where tumor is removed. If tumor is cancerous, then other treatment methods may also be done:

• Radiofrequency ablation
• Cryotherapy
• Chemotherapy