25th May 2025

Glucagonomas

These originate from alpha cells of the pancreas and are caused by excess glucagon. This causes high blood sugar levels. Symptoms include diarrhoea, rashes, DVT, weight loss, polyuria and polydipsia. These tumours tend to be radiologically identifiable at the point of presentation and may already be metastasised (most commonly to the liver). Management depends on the stage at presentation and includes chemotherapy, embolization and surgery.