Browse

You are looking at 1 - 10 of 13 items for :

  • Patient Demographics x
  • Endocrine-related cancer x
  • Gland/Organ x
  • Unique/unexpected symptoms or presentations of a disease x
  • Case Report Type x
  • Publication Details x
Clear All
Rikako Nakajima Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Rikako Nakajima in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Daisuke Sato Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Daisuke Sato in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Ichirota Togashi Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Ichirota Togashi in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Hiroto Idesawa Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Hiroto Idesawa in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Jun Ito Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Jun Ito in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Kei Ito Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Kei Ito in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Masanao Fujii Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Masanao Fujii in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Hiroaki Yagyu Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tsukuba University Hospital Mito Clinical Education and Training Center, Mito Kyodo General Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan

Search for other papers by Hiroaki Yagyu in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

An 89-year-old woman presented with a 6-year history of occasional episodes of impaired consciousness that were relieved by ingestion of a snack. Three months before presenting to our hospital, she had been hospitalized in a local hospital with subdural hematoma caused by a head contusion, where previously unrecognized hypoglycemia was discovered. Fasting plasma glucose concentration was 37 mg/dL, with a relatively high serum level of insulin (34.9 µU/mL). Computed tomography showed a 14 mm hyperenhancing tumor in the tail of the pancreas and she was referred to our hospital for further investigation. A prolonged fasting test revealed the plasma glucose concentration reduced to 43 mg/dL (2.4 mmol/L) at 8 h after the last meal. Serum insulin, proinsulin, and C-peptide concentrations were 21.1 µU/mL, 16.9 pmol/L, and 2.72 ng/mL, respectively. Subsequent intravenous administration of 1 mg of glucagon increased the plasma glucose concentration to 76 mg/dL (4.2 mmol/L). Moreover, the insulin-to-C-peptide molar ratio was 0.14. These data indicated the presence of insulinoma. Interestingly, serum anti-insulin antibodies were elevated (21.1 U/mL), although she had no history of taking exogenous insulin injection, alpha lipoic acid, or sulfhydryl group-containing agents. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing revealed HLA-DRB1*0407 and HLA-DRB1*1405 alleles. Treatment with diazoxide prevented hypoglycemia, but was discontinued due to weight gain and leg edema. Elevated serum anti-insulin antibodies persisted almost 1 year after the diagnosis of insulinoma. We present a rare case of insulinoma concomitant with serum anti-insulin antibodies.

Learning points

  • Insulinoma presenting with concomitant anti-insulin antibodies appears rare.

  • Insulin/C-peptide molar ratio and serum insulin concentration are useful for differentiating insulinoma and autoimmune syndrome.

  • Flash glucose monitoring systems appear suitable for evaluating treatment outcomes.

Open access
George Brown Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by George Brown in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Anthony Mark Monaghan Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Anthony Mark Monaghan in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Richard Fristedt Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Richard Fristedt in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Emma Ramsey Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Emma Ramsey in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Ma’en Al-Mrayat Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Ma’en Al-Mrayat in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Rushda Rajak Department of Cellular Pathology, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Rushda Rajak in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Thomas Armstrong Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Thomas Armstrong in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Arjun Takhar Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK

Search for other papers by Arjun Takhar in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

Vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting tumours (VIPomas) are an extremely rare form of functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour with an estimated annual incidence of 1 in 10 million. Associated tumour hypersecretion of other peptides, including pancreatic polypeptide (PPomas), may also be seen. These malignancies classically present with a defined triad of refractory diarrhoea, hypokalaemia and metabolic acidosis known as Verner–Morrison syndrome. Diagnosis is frequently delayed, and the majority of patients will have metastatic disease at presentation. Symptoms are usually well controlled with somatostatin analogue administration. Here we report a case of metastatic mixed VIPoma/PPoma-induced diarrhoea causing renal failure so severe that ultrafiltration was required to recover adequate renal function.

Learning points

  • Profuse, watery diarrhoea is a common presenting complaint with a multitude of aetiologies. This, combined with the rarity of these tumours, makes diagnosis difficult and frequently delayed. A functional neuroendocrine tumour should be suspected when diarrhoea is unusually extreme, prolonged and common causes have been promptly excluded.

  • These patients are likely to be profoundly unwell on presentation. They are extremely hypovolaemic with dangerous electrolyte and metabolic abnormalities. Aggressive initial rehydration and electrolyte replacement are imperative. A somatostatin analogue should be commenced as soon as the diagnosis is suspected.

  • This is an extreme example of Verner–Morrison syndrome. We are unaware of another case where renal failure secondary to diarrhoea and dehydration was so severe that renal replacement therapy was required to restore adequate renal function, further emphasising how critically unwell these patients can be.

  • Both the primary tumour and metastases showed a remarkably good and rapid response to somatostatin analogue administration. Cystic change and involution were noted on repeat imaging within days.

  • Prior to his illness, this patient was extremely high functioning with no medical history. His diagnosis was an enormous psychological shock, and the consideration and care for his psychological well-being were a crucial part of his overall management. It highlights the importance of a holistic approach to cancer care and the role of the clinical nurse specialist within the cancer multidisciplinary team.

Open access
Jenny S W Yun Department of Surgical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Search for other papers by Jenny S W Yun in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Chris McCormack Department of Surgical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Search for other papers by Chris McCormack in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Michelle Goh Department of Surgical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Search for other papers by Michelle Goh in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Cherie Chiang Department of Internal Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia

Search for other papers by Cherie Chiang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a common dermatosis associated with hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance. However, AN has been rarely reported in patients with insulinoma, a state of persistent hyperinsulinemia. We present a case of metastatic insulinoma, in whom AN manifested after the first cycle of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). A 40-year-old man was diagnosed with metastatic insulinoma after 5 months of symptomatic hypoglycemia. Within 1 month post PRRT, the patient became euglycemic but developed a pigmented, pruritic rash which was confirmed on biopsy as AN. We discuss the rare manifestation of AN in subjects with insulinoma, the role of insulin in the pathogenesis of AN, malignant AN in non-insulin-secreting malignancies and association with other insulin-resistant endocrinopathies such as acromegaly.

Learning points

  • Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a common dermatosis which is typically asymptomatic and associated with the hyperinsulinemic state.

  • Malignant AN can rapidly spread, cause pruritus and affect mucosa and the oral cavity.

  • AN is extremely rare in patients with insulinoma despite marked hyperinsulinemia.

  • Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy might have triggered TGF-α secretion in this subject which led to malignant AN.

  • Rapid spread or unusual distribution of pruritic AN warrants further investigation to exclude underlying malignancy.

Open access
Pranav Gupta Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Search for other papers by Pranav Gupta in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Karen Loechner Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Childrens Medical Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA

Search for other papers by Karen Loechner in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Briana C Patterson Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Search for other papers by Briana C Patterson in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Eric Felner Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Search for other papers by Eric Felner in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

Insulinomas are a rare cause of persistent hypoglycemia in a previously healthy child. In addition to symptoms of hypoglycemia, individuals with insulinomas usually present with a history of incessant caloric intake and weight gain due to a constant need to counter hypoglycemia. In addition to an extensive review of the literature, we report the first case of an insulinoma coexisting with reduced appetite secondary to anorexia nervosa in an adolescent female.

Learning points

  • Eliciting a detailed family history is important in hypoglycemia cases.

  • Obtaining a thorough dietary intake, weight history, and menstrual cycles (in females) and considering a psychiatric consultation for an eating disorder when indicated.

  • Although rare in the pediatric population, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 syndrome should be considered in the evaluation of children and adolescents with hypoglycemia who also have a family history of pituitary, pancreatic, and/or parathyroid endocrinopathies.

Open access
Vinaya Srirangam Nadhamuni Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK

Search for other papers by Vinaya Srirangam Nadhamuni in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Donato Iacovazzo Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK

Search for other papers by Donato Iacovazzo in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Jane Evanson St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Jane Evanson in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Anju Sahdev St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Anju Sahdev in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Jacqueline Trouillas Department of Pathology, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France

Search for other papers by Jacqueline Trouillas in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Lorraine McAndrew St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Lorraine McAndrew in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Tom R Kurzawinski Division of Endocrine Surgery, University College Hospital, London, UK

Search for other papers by Tom R Kurzawinski in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
David Bryant Sunderland Royal Hospital, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, UK

Search for other papers by David Bryant in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Khalid Hussain Division of Endocrinology, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Ad Dawhah, Qatar

Search for other papers by Khalid Hussain in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Satya Bhattacharya St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Satya Bhattacharya in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Márta Korbonits Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK

Search for other papers by Márta Korbonits in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

A male patient with a germline mutation in MEN1 presented at the age of 18 with classical features of gigantism. Previously, he had undergone resection of an insulin-secreting pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (pNET) at the age of 10 years and had subtotal parathyroidectomy due to primary hyperparathyroidism at the age of 15 years. He was found to have significantly elevated serum IGF-1, GH, GHRH and calcitonin levels. Pituitary MRI showed an overall bulky gland with a 3 mm hypoechoic area. Abdominal MRI showed a 27 mm mass in the head of the pancreas and a 6 mm lesion in the tail. Lanreotide-Autogel 120 mg/month reduced GHRH by 45% and IGF-1 by 20%. Following pancreaticoduodenectomy, four NETs were identified with positive GHRH and calcitonin staining and Ki-67 index of 2% in the largest lesion. The pancreas tail lesion was not removed. Post-operatively, GHRH and calcitonin levels were undetectable, IGF-1 levels normalised and GH suppressed normally on glucose challenge. Post-operative fasting glucose and HbA1c levels have remained normal at the last check-up. While adolescent-onset cases of GHRH-secreting pNETs have been described, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of ectopic GHRH in a paediatric setting leading to gigantism in a patient with MEN1. Our case highlights the importance of distinguishing between pituitary and ectopic causes of gigantism, especially in the setting of MEN1, where paediatric somatotroph adenomas causing gigantism are extremely rare.

Learning points

  • It is important to diagnose gigantism and its underlying cause (pituitary vs ectopic) early in order to prevent further growth and avoid unnecessary pituitary surgery. The most common primary tumour sites in ectopic acromegaly include the lung (53%) and the pancreas (34%) (1): 76% of patients with a pNET secreting GHRH showed a MEN1 mutation (1).

  • Plasma GHRH testing is readily available in international laboratories and can be a useful diagnostic tool in distinguishing between pituitary acromegaly mediated by GH and ectopic acromegaly mediated by GHRH. Positive GHRH immunostaining in the NET tissue confirms the diagnosis.

  • Distinguishing between pituitary (somatotroph) hyperplasia secondary to ectopic GHRH and pituitary adenoma is difficult and requires specialist neuroradiology input and consideration, especially in the MEN1 setting. It is important to note that the vast majority of GHRH-secreting tumours (lung, pancreas, phaeochromocytoma) are expected to be visible on cross-sectional imaging (median diameter 55 mm) (1). Therefore, we suggest that a chest X-ray and an abdominal ultrasound checking the adrenal glands and the pancreas should be included in the routine work-up of newly diagnosed acromegaly patients.

Open access
Kieran Palmer King’s College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Kieran Palmer in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Scott Weerasuriya King’s College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Scott Weerasuriya in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Benjamin Whitelaw King’s College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Benjamin Whitelaw in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Rajaventhan Srirajaskanthan King’s College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK

Search for other papers by Rajaventhan Srirajaskanthan in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

We report a rare case of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), precipitated by ectopic Cushing’s syndrome, in a patient with a metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour. A 55-year-old female presented as a hypertensive emergency with seizures and severe biochemical disturbance, including alkalosis, hypokalaemia and hyperglycaemia. MRI showed vasogenic oedema in the parieto-occipital region, consistent with a diagnosis of PRES. She had a significantly raised serum cortisol (>6000 nmol/L) which did not suppress with dexamethasone. Plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) concentrations were neither suppressed nor raised but were consistently within the normal reference range. The unexpected finding of a normal ACTH may be explained by either tumour secretion of unmeasured ACTH-related peptides, immunoassay antibody interference or episodic ACTH secretion. PRES is usually reversible with prompt and appropriate treatment. Hypercortisolism associated PRES is rare and may be associated with a worse outcome.

Learning points

  • PRES secondary to ectopic Cushing’s syndrome is very rare.

  • PRES in this context may indicate a worse prognosis.

  • In ectopic Cushing’s syndrome, if the serum ACTH level is normal, consider testing for ACTH-related peptides or interfering antibodies.

  • Further research is required to establish the best treatment approach and to improve patients’ outcomes.

Open access
Seong Keat Cheah Endocrinology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Seong Keat Cheah in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Chad Ramese Bisambar Endocrinology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Chad Ramese Bisambar in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Deborah Pitfield Endocrinology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Deborah Pitfield in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Olivier Giger Pathology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Olivier Giger in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Rogier ten Hoopen Pathology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Rogier ten Hoopen in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Jose-Ezequiel Martin Medical Genetics, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Jose-Ezequiel Martin in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Graeme R Clark Medical Genetics, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Graeme R Clark in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Soo-Mi Park Medical Genetics, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Soo-Mi Park in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Craig Parkinson Endocrinology, East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Colchester, Essex, UK

Search for other papers by Craig Parkinson in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Benjamin G Challis Endocrinology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Benjamin G Challis in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Ruth T Casey Endocrinology, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
Medical Genetics, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Search for other papers by Ruth T Casey in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

A 38-year-old female was identified as carrying a heterozygous pathogenic MEN1 variant (c.1304delG) through predictive genetic testing, following a diagnosis of familial hyperparathyroidism. Routine screening for parathyroid and pituitary disease was negative. However, cross-sectional imaging by CT revealed a 41 mm pancreatic tail mass. Biopsy via endoscopic ultrasound confirmed the lesion to be a well-differentiated (grade 1) pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (pNET) with MIB1<1%. Biochemically, hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia was confirmed following an overnight fast, which was subsequently managed by diet alone prior to definitive surgery. Pre-operative work-up with octreotide SPECT CT demonstrated avid tracer uptake in the pancreatic lesion and, unexpectedly, a focal area of uptake in the left breast. Further investigation, and subsequent mastectomy, confirmed ductal carcinoma in situ pT2 (23 mm) grade 1, N0 (ER positive; HER2 negative). Following mastectomy, our patient underwent a successful distal pancreatectomy to resect the pNET. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at the MEN1 locus was found in both the breast tumour and pNET, thereby in keeping with a 'two-hit' hypothesis of oncogenesis, a suggestive but non-definitive clue for causation. To obtain further support for a causative relationship between MEN1 and breast cancer, we undertook a detailed review of the published literature which overall supports the notion that breast cancer is a MEN1-related malignancy that presents at a younger age and histologically, is typically of ductal subtype. Currently, clinical guidance regarding breast cancer surveillance in MEN1 does not exist and further research is required to establish a clinical and cost-effective surveillance strategy).

Learning points

  • We describe a case of pNET and breast cancer diagnosed at a young age of 38 years in a patient who is heterozygous for a pathogenic MEN1 variant. Loss of the wild-type allele was seen in both breast tissue and pNET specimen.

  • Breast cancer may be an under-recognised MEN1-associated malignancy that presents at a younger age than in the general population with a relative risk of 2–3.

  • Further research is required to determine the cost-effectiveness of breast cancer surveillance approach at a younger age in MEN1 patients relative to the general population .

Open access
Michal Barabas Wolfson Diabetes & Endocrine Clinic, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Search for other papers by Michal Barabas in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Isabel Huang-Doran Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, UK

Search for other papers by Isabel Huang-Doran in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Debbie Pitfield Wolfson Diabetes & Endocrine Clinic, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Search for other papers by Debbie Pitfield in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Hazel Philips Department of Cardiology, Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, Bedford, UK

Search for other papers by Hazel Philips in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Manoj Goonewardene Department of Cardiology, Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, Bedford, UK

Search for other papers by Manoj Goonewardene in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Ruth T Casey Wolfson Diabetes & Endocrine Clinic, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Search for other papers by Ruth T Casey in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Benjamin G Challis Wolfson Diabetes & Endocrine Clinic, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
IMED Biotech Unit, Clinical Discovery Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK

Search for other papers by Benjamin G Challis in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

A 67-year-old woman presented with a generalised rash associated with weight loss and resting tachycardia. She had a recent diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Biochemical evaluation revealed elevated levels of circulating glucagon and chromogranin B. Cross-sectional imaging demonstrated a pancreatic lesion and liver metastases, which were octreotide-avid. Biopsy of the liver lesion confirmed a diagnosis of well-differentiated grade 2 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour, consistent with metastatic glucagonoma. Serial echocardiography commenced 4 years before this diagnosis demonstrated a progressive left ventricular dilatation and dysfunction in the absence of ischaemia, suggestive of glucagonoma-associated dilated cardiomyopathy. Given the severity of the cardiac impairment, surgical management was considered inappropriate and somatostatin analogue therapy was initiated, affecting clinical and biochemical improvement. Serial cross-sectional imaging demonstrated stable disease 2 years after diagnosis. Left ventricular dysfunction persisted, however, despite somatostatin analogue therapy and optimal medical management of cardiac failure. In contrast to previous reports, the case we describe demonstrates that chronic hyperglucagonaemia may lead to irreversible left ventricular compromise. Management of glucagonoma therefore requires careful and serial evaluation of cardiac status.

Learning points:

  • In rare cases, glucagonoma may present with cardiac failure as the dominant feature. Significant cardiac impairment may occur in the absence of other features of glucagonoma syndrome due to subclinical chronic hyperglucagonaemia.

  • A diagnosis of glucagonoma should be considered in patients with non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy, particularly those with other features of glucagonoma syndrome.

  • Cardiac impairment due to glucagonoma may not respond to somatostatin analogue therapy, even in the context of biochemical improvement.

  • All patients with a new diagnosis of glucagonoma should be assessed clinically for evidence of cardiac failure and, if present, a baseline transthoracic echocardiogram should be performed. In the presence of cardiac impairment these patients should be managed by an experienced cardiologist.

Open access
Sarah Y Qian Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

Search for other papers by Sarah Y Qian in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Matthew J L Hare Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

Search for other papers by Matthew J L Hare in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Alan Pham Department of Anatomical Pathology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

Search for other papers by Alan Pham in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Duncan J Topliss Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia

Search for other papers by Duncan J Topliss in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

Insulinomas are rare neuroendocrine tumours that classically present with fasting hypoglycaemia. This case report discusses an uncommon and challenging case of insulinoma soon after upper gastrointestinal surgery. A 63-year-old man presented with 6 months of post-prandial hypoglycaemia beginning after a laparoscopic revision of Toupet fundoplication. Hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia was confirmed during a spontaneous episode and in a mixed-meal test. Localisation studies including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and gallium dotatate positron emission tomography (68Ga Dotatate PET) were consistent with a small insulinoma in the mid-body of the pancreas. The lesion was excised and histopathology was confirmed a localised well-differentiated neuroendocrine pancreatic neoplasm. There have been no significant episodes of hypoglycaemia since. This case highlights several key points. Insulinoma should be sought in proven post-prandial hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia – even in the absence of fasting hypoglycaemia. The use of nuclear imaging targeting somatostatin and GLP1 receptors has improved accuracy of localisation. Despite these advances, accurate surgical resection can remain challenging.

Learning points:

  • Hypoglycaemia is defined by Whipple’s triad and can be provoked by fasting or mixed-meal tests.

  • Although uncommon, insulinomas can present with post-prandial hypoglycaemia.

  • In hypoglycaemia following gastrointestinal surgery (i.e. bariatric surgery or less commonly Nissen fundoplication) dumping syndrome or non-insulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycaemia syndrome (NIPHS) should be considered.

  • Improved imaging techniques including MRI, endoscopic ultrasound and functional nuclear medicine scans aid localisation of insulinomas.

  • Despite advances in imaging and surgical techniques, accurate resection of insulinomas remains challenging.

Open access
Jerena Manoharan Department of Visceral Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Jerena Manoharan in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Caroline L Lopez Department of Visceral Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Caroline L Lopez in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Karl Hackmann Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Institute for Clinical Genetics, TU Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 7401307, Dresden, Germany
German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany

Search for other papers by Karl Hackmann in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Max B Albers Department of Visceral Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Max B Albers in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Anika Pehl Department of Pathology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Anika Pehl in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Peter H Kann Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Gastroenterology and Endocrinology, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Peter H Kann in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Emily P Slater Department of Visceral Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Emily P Slater in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Evelin Schröck Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Institute for Clinical Genetics, TU Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 7401307, Dresden, Germany
German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany

Search for other papers by Evelin Schröck in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Detlef K Bartsch Department of Visceral Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstrasse35043, Marburg, Germany

Search for other papers by Detlef K Bartsch in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Summary

We report about a young female who developed an unusual and an aggressive phenotype of the MEN1 syndrome characterized by the development of a pHPT, malignant non-functioning pancreatic and duodenal neuroendocrine neoplasias, a pituitary adenoma, a non-functioning adrenal adenoma and also a malignant jejunal NET at the age of 37 years. Initial Sanger sequencing could not detect a germline mutation of the MEN1 gene, but next generation sequencing and MPLA revealed a deletion of the MEN1 gene ranging between 7.6 and 25.9 kb. Small intestine neuroendocrine neoplasias (SI-NENs) are currently not considered to be a part of the phenotype of the MEN1-syndrome. In our patient the SI-NENs were detected during follow-up imaging on Ga68-Dotatoc PET/CT and could be completely resected. Although SI-NENs are extremely rare, these tumors should also be considered in MEN1 patients. Whether an aggressive phenotype or the occurrence of SI-NENs in MEN1 are more likely associated with large deletions of the gene warrants further investigation.

Learning points

  • Our patient presents an extraordinary course of disease.

  • Although SI-NENs are extremely rare, these tumors should also be considered in MEN1 patients, besides the typical MEN1 associated tumors.

  • This case reports indicate that in some cases conventional mutation analysis of MEN1 patients should be supplemented by the search for larger gene deletions with modern techniques, if no germline mutation could be identified by Sanger sequencing.

Open access