Glucagonoma

Causes and Risks:
Glucagonoma is usually malignant (growing worse - resisting treatment). The islet cells of the pancreas are affected, and symptoms relate to glucose intolerance. Spreading ( metastasis ) to the liver may occur with this type of cancer . It also causes a distinctive skin lesion called necrolytic migratory erythema . The cause is unknown, but genetic factors play a role with some people. Risk factors include a family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia, type I ( MEN I ).

Prevention:
There is no proven prevention for this tumor . Awareness of risk, including family history, may allow early diagnosis.

Symptoms:
  • skin rash that migrates on face, abdomen, perineum, buttocks, or lower extremities
    • may be crusty, scaly, or raised lesions filled with clear fluid or pus

  • inflamed mouth and tongue
  • weight loss



Signs and Tests:



Treatment:
Surgical removal of the tumor is the preferred treatment. The tumor does not respond to chemotherapy .

Prognosis:
Approximately 60% of these tumors are malignant. Metastasis to the liver is common.

Complications:
Metastasis of cancer to the liver is a complication.

Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if you notice symptoms of glucagonoma.