1. Glucagonoma Explained
Glucagonoma is a tumor in the islet cells of the pancreas. 80% of the cases are cancerous, and early diagnosis is important, as this particular malignancy can spread to the liver and surrounding tissues. Even if benign, the tumor can cause the pancreas to secrete abnormal amounts of hormones or it can block hormone production. A tumor that causes excessive secretion is called a functioning tumor, because the pancreas is still functioning. A non-functioning tumor occurs when the pancreas has stopped secreting hormones, usually due to the tumor blocking biliary (bile) ducts. This tumor grows slowly, and many people live more than 15 years with it.
2. Symptoms of Glucagonoma
The first symptoms for this condition often are similar to diabetes. Blood sugar levels rise because more glucagon is released, and this causes hyperglycemia. Other symptoms include a chronic rash called necrolytic migratory erythema. This brownish-red rash starts in the groin area and moves to the legs, forearms and buttocks. It will become scaly. The rash also may move to the trunk and abdomen. Your tongue also may become bright red or orange and look smooth and shiny. Many people with glucagonoma lose weight.
3. Three Preferred Treatments for Glucagonoma
Surgery is the preferred treatment for glucagonoma, especially if the tumor is malignant. Chemotherapy does not effectively treat cancerous glucagonoma, but there are drugs that can decrease the amount of glucagon released by the disease if surgery isn't an option. Decreasing the amount of glucagon will diminish symptoms. Other drugs, like doxorubicin and streptozotocin, may shrink the cancerous tumor. Surgically occluding (blocking) the artery to the liver is sometimes performed to stop pancreatic cancer from spreading to the liver. Other drugs are prescribed to alleviate symptoms of the rash, which can be painful and itchy. Hormones or other drugs are often prescribed to stabilize blood sugar levels.
