Islet cell tumor
Islet cell tumor is a type of tumor that originates from the islet cells in the pancreas. These tumors can be either benign or malignant. They are also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs).
Types[edit | edit source]
There are several types of islet cell tumors, including:
- Insulinoma: This is the most common type of islet cell tumor. It produces an excess amount of insulin, leading to low blood sugar.
- Gastrinoma: This type of tumor produces an excess amount of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates the stomach to produce acid. This can lead to Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
- Glucagonoma: This type of tumor produces an excess amount of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar levels.
- Somatostatinoma: This type of tumor produces an excess amount of somatostatin, a hormone that inhibits the release of other hormones.
- VIPoma: This type of tumor produces an excess amount of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leading to a condition known as Verner-Morrison syndrome.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of islet cell tumors depend on the type of hormone being overproduced. Common symptoms include:
- Hypoglycemia: This can cause confusion, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness.
- Peptic ulcers: These can cause abdominal pain and bleeding.
- Diarrhea: This can lead to dehydration and weight loss.
- Skin rash: This can be a sign of glucagonoma.
- Flushing: This can be a sign of VIPoma.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Islet cell tumors are diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include:
- Blood tests: These can measure the levels of hormones in the blood.
- Imaging tests: These can include CT scans, MRI scans, and nuclear medicine scans.
- Biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the tumor for examination under a microscope.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The treatment for islet cell tumors depends on the type and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: This is the most common treatment for islet cell tumors. The surgeon may remove the entire pancreas or just the part of the pancreas that contains the tumor.
- Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
- Hormone therapy: This uses drugs to block the production of hormones by the tumor.
See also[edit | edit source]
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