Islet cell adenoma, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor or pancreatic insulinoma, is a term used in the medical field to describe a benign tumor arising from the islet cells of the pancreas. Islet cells are specialized cells within the pancreas that produce and release hormones necessary for regulating blood sugar levels, such as insulin.
Islet cell adenoma typically occurs in the pancreas and accounts for the majority of functioning islet cell tumors. These tumors are often small in size, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters, and usually grow slowly. They are generally classified as benign because they do not invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body.
Symptoms of islet cell adenoma may include episodes of recurrent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), presenting with symptoms like confusion, dizziness, sweating, and hunger. Additionally, some patients may experience weight gain due to excessive release of insulin, which promotes fat storage. However, in some cases, patients may remain asymptomatic or have mild symptoms that can be easily overlooked.
Diagnosis of islet cell adenoma typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and blood tests to measure levels of specific hormones, including insulin and C-peptide. Treatment options include surgical removal of the tumor, which usually leads to complete cure in most cases, or non-surgical approaches like medications to control symptoms and manage blood sugar levels.
In summary, islet cell adenoma refers to a non-cancerous tumor originating from the islet cells of the pancreas, causing hormonal imbalances and potentially leading to symptoms related to blood sugar regulation.
