Insuliinomaas

Insuliinomaas refers to a type of tumor that originates in the beta cells of the pancreas. These tumors are the most common type of functional neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas. The primary characteristic of an insuliinoma is its production of excessive amounts of insulin. This overproduction leads to hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by dangerously low blood glucose levels. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include dizziness, confusion, sweating, tremors, anxiety, and in severe cases, seizures and loss of consciousness. These episodes often occur when the patient has fasted or after strenuous exercise.

The diagnosis of insuliinoma typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and biochemical tests. A Whipple's triad is a classic indicator, consisting of symptoms of hypoglycemia, documented low blood glucose levels during symptomatic episodes, and relief of symptoms upon administration of glucose. Imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound are used to locate the tumor, which is often small and can be difficult to find.

Treatment for insuliinoma primarily involves surgical removal of the tumor. In most cases, complete resection leads to a cure. For unresectable tumors or when surgery is not an option, medical management may be employed to control blood glucose levels. This can include medications like diazoxide or octreotide to inhibit insulin secretion. While insuliinomas are most often benign, a small percentage can be malignant and metastasize. Regular follow-up is important even after successful treatment to monitor for recurrence.