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Insulinomas are a rare type of functional neuroendocrine tumour usually found in the pancreas. They are called functional because they produce insulin and cause blood sugar levels to drop, quite often dramatically and in 'episodes.'
Even the smallest tumours can cause symptoms connected to hypoglycemia (the medical term for low blood glucose levels).
The vast majority are benign (with no spread beyond the pancreas). However, 10% are malignant and by the time of diagnosis will have spread elsewhere in the body, usually the liver. The tumours are generally diagnosed in middle age and slightly more women are affected. If an insulinoma is suspected you may also be screened for a genetic condition called MEN1.
What are the symptoms?
How are insulinomas diagnosed?
What tests are available?
How can insulinomas be treated?
How can I manage my hypos?
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