Glucagonoma is a rare malignant tumor that forms in the pancreas and can metastasize to other organs. Symptoms include rashes, inflammation, frequent urination, and high blood sugar. Treatment involves chemotherapy and surgery, and prognosis depends on the size and composition of the tumor.
A glucagonoma is a rare type of tumor that forms in the pancreas. Generally malignant in composition, a glucagonoma possesses an increased potential to metastasize to other organs, namely the liver. Treatment for this serious medical condition usually involves chemotherapy and, in some cases, surgery.
Glucagonomas originate with the abnormal development of islet cells within the pancreas. Islet cells are responsible for the production and release of pancreatic hormones, such as glucagon and insulin. There is no known cause for the abnormal development of islet cells leading to the formation of a glucagonoma. In this type of cancer, the production of glucagon increases to the point that too much of the hormone is produced and released in the body.
Individuals with this type of pancreatic cancer can present and experience a variety of signs and symptoms. Some may develop sporadic rashes that appear as dry, scaly patches or lesions affecting the face, torso, or lower limbs. Inflammation of the oral cavity, frequent urination and excessive thirst can also be signs of the presence of this type of pancreatic cancer. Individuals may also develop glucose intolerance or high blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia. Additional symptoms may include unintentional weight loss and diarrhea.
There are several diagnostic tests that can be done to confirm the presence of a glucagonoma; although it is important to note that, in most cases, by the time a glucagonoma is detected, it has already metastasized to the liver. Individuals may undergo a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen to evaluate the condition of the pancreas and surrounding organs in the digestive system. Blood tests may be done to measure glucagon and glucose levels and to check for abnormalities or markers that indicate the presence of malignancy. Additionally, a glucose tolerance test may be performed to evaluate how well the individual’s body metabolizes blood sugar.
Treatment for a glucagonoma usually involves the use of chemotherapy to shrink the tumor. Chemotherapy is a form of cancer drug therapy that can be administered orally or intravenously. Individuals undergoing chemotherapy treatments can experience side effects which can include fatigue, nausea and vomiting. In case the glucagonoma does not respond to chemotherapy treatment, surgery to remove the tumor may be done. Typically, surgical removal of the abnormal growth is preferred to prevent the spread of cancer and the development of complications.
The prognosis associated with a glucagonoma depends on the size and composition of the tumor and whether or not it has metastases. The chances that the growth will metastasize before discovery are relatively high and may compromise treatment success. When the tumor remains confined to the pancreas and is successfully removed, an individual’s five-year survival rate increases substantially.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
