Insulinoma: Diagnosis and Treatment

A neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas presenting with hypoglycemia.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 10, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Insulinoma: Diagnosis and Treatment?

Insulinoma is the most common functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor and is typically a benign, single, small lesion (<2 cm). It produces autonomous insulin secretion that causes recurrent hypoglycemia attacks.

Diagnosis is confirmed by hypoglycemia, simultaneous high insulin and C-peptide levels, and absent ketosis during a 72-hour fasting test. Cross-sectional imaging (MRI/CT/EUS) is used for tumor localization.

Surgical enucleation or limited pancreatectomy is the standard treatment. Diazoxide and somatostatin analogs are used for symptom control in malignant or unresectable cases; PRRT and chemotherapy are options for metastatic disease.

Symptoms

Whipple triad (hypoglycemia symptoms, low blood glucose, relief with eating)

Sweating and tremor

Confusion and behavioral changes

Convulsions and loss of consciousness

Weight gain (frequent eating)

Morning fasting hypoglycemia

Risk Factors

MEN1 syndrome (multiple endocrine neoplasia)

Female sex (slight predominance)

Middle age (40-50 years)

Family history of insulinoma

von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (rare)

Multiple pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Recurrent unexplained hypoglycemia attacks
Hypoglycemia symptoms in fasting state
Behavioral changes and seizures
Hypoglycemia despite eating
Family history of MEN1 syndrome
Pancreatic mass detected on imaging

Treatment Methods

Surgical enucleation or pancreatic resection

Diazoxide (insulin secretion suppressant)

Somatostatin analogs (octreotide)

Selective intraarterial calcium stimulation test

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided localization

PRRT and everolimus for metastatic disease

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.