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Glucagonoma
Definition:
Glucagonoma is a tumor of the islet cells of the pancreas, which secrete the hormones insulin and glucagon. Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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Glucagonoma is usually malignant, which means that it has a tendency to spread and get worse. The islet cells of the pancreas are affected by this cancer, and as a result, they produce too much of a hormone called glucagon. The excess glucagon causes symptoms such as glucose intolerance and hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar). 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 in some cases. Risk factors include a family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type I (MEN I).
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