Insulinoma

Question 1

Fill in this table on the effects of hyperinsulinaemia on carb and lipid metabolism

Answer 1

Question 2

What are the clinical signs of hypoglycaemia

Answer 2

Neurological signs:
- confusion, disorientation, restlessness
- weakness and lethargy
- seizures
- behaviour changes
- ataxia
- hunger
- pupillary changes
MSK system:
- muscle weakness
- tremors and shaking
- lethargy
- stiffness

Question 3

Describe the levels of insulin when an insulinoma is present and how this relates to diagnosis

Answer 3

Conc of insulin can vary over time as insulinomas may not continuously secrete excessive insulin so may be periods of normal insulin levels
Insulinomas not only source of hypoglycaemia so cannot diagnose insulinoma with this

Question 4

What is prednisolone and how does it work?

Answer 4

Treatment for insulinoma
- closely resembles sortisol
- promotes gluconeogenesis
- inhibits glucose uptake by peripheral tissues
- stimulates glycogenolysis
- induces insulin resistance
- enhances appetite