Insulinoma
Alternate Names : Insuloma, Islet cell adenoma
Definition
An insulinoma is a tumor in the pancreas that produces too much insulin.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The pancreas is an organ in the abdomen that makes several enzymes and hormones, including the hormone insulin. Insulin is needed to control blood sugar levels. Tumors of the pancreas that produce too much insulin are called insulinomas. High insulin levels cause low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Hypoglycemia may be mild, leading to symptoms such as anxiety and hunger. Or it can be severe, leading to seizures, coma, and even death.
Insulinomas are rare tumors. They usually occur as single, small tumors in adults. They are very rare in children. Most children with hyperinsulinemia have many areas of overactive insulin-releasing cells in the pancreas, instead of a single tumor. Accidentally or purposefully taking medications that cause too much insulin production is about as common as insulinoma. Most insulinomas are non-cancerous (benign) tumors. Only 5 - 10% are cancerous. People with the genetic syndrome called multiple endocrine neoplasia type I are at risk for insulinomas and other endocrine tumors.
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