Insulinoma in a patient with normal results from prolonged fast and glucagon-induced hypoglycemia

Abstract

Objective: To describe a man with a functioning insulinoma and normal results from two 72-hour fasts who developed hypoglycemia secondary to exaggerated insulin response following glucagon stimulation.

Methods: We report the patient's clinical findings, laboratory findings, and clinical course. We also review the literature for previously reported cases and possible mechanisms.

Results: A 49-year-old man presented with hypoglycemic symptoms initially occurring after jogging and well-documented symptomatic hypoglycemia occurring during an evening meal. A 72-hour fast was associated with a serum glucose concentration of 50 mg/dL, suppressed insulin and C-peptide levels, and mildly elevated β-hydroxybutyrate. Another documented episode of hypoglycemia occurring 3 hours postprandially was associated with elevated insulin and C-peptide and suppressed β-hydroxybutyrate. A second 72-hour fast provoked asymptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose concentration at 60 hours: 32 mg/dL) with suppressed insulin and measurable β-hydroxybutyrate. After 72 hours of fasting, glucagon administration led to a decrease in glucose from 50 to 18 mg/dL, elevations in insulin and C-peptide, and suppression of β-hydroxybutyrate. Computed tomography revealed a mass lesion in the pancreatic tail. Distal pancreatectomy was performed, and the resected specimen demonstrated immunostaining for insulin. Hypoglycemic symptoms resolved postoperatively.

Conclusions: Normal results from a prolonged fast do not preclude an insulinoma and may demonstrate exaggerated insulin secretion from the insulinoma following glucagon administration. In addition to examining the glucose response to glucagon as a surrogate for insulinoma diagnosis, measurement of serum insulin levels following glucagon administration may provide a further clue to the diagnosis of insulinoma.