Glucagonoma

Glucagonoma is usually cancerous (malignant). The cancer tends to spread and get worse.

This cancer affects the islet cells of the pancreas. As a result, the islet cells produce too much of the hormone glucagon.

The cause is unknown. Genetic factors play a role in some cases. A family history of the syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia type I (MEN I) is a risk factor.

Symptoms of glucagonoma may include any of the following:

• Glucose intolerance (body has problem breaking down sugars)
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
• Diarrhea
• Excessive thirst (due to high blood sugar)
• Frequent urination (due to high blood sugar)
• Increased appetite
• Inflamed mouth and tongue
• Nighttime (nocturnal) urination
• Skin rash on face, abdomen, buttocks, or feet that comes and goes, and moves around
• Weight loss

In most cases, the cancer has already spread to the liver when it is diagnosed.

Tests that may be done include:

• CT scan of the abdomen
• Glucagon level in the blood
• Glucose level in the blood

Surgery to remove the tumor is usually recommended. The tumor does not usually respond to chemotherapy.

Approximately 60% of these tumors are cancerous. It is common for this cancer to spread to the liver. Only about 20% of people can be cured with surgery.

If the tumor is only in the pancreas and surgery to remove it is successful, people have a 5-year survival rate of 85%.

The cancer can spread to the liver. High blood sugar level can cause problems with metabolism and tissue damage.

Call your health care provider if you notice symptoms of glucagonoma.