What causes insulinoma?
The pancreas is an organ in the abdomen that releases the hormone insulin. Insulin is required to regulate blood sugar levels. Tumors of the pancreas that produce excessive amounts of insulin (hyperinsulinemia) are called insulinomas.
High insulin levels cause hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose (sugar). Hypoglycemia caused by insulinomas may be mild and lead to symptoms such as anxiety and hunger, but patients are also at risk for severe hypoglycemia, which can cause seizures, coma, and even death. |
