Islet Cell Cancer

Islet cell cancer, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs), is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach that produces hormones and enzymes to help digest food.

Types of Islet Cell Cancer

There are several types of islet cell cancer, including:

• Insulinoma: a tumor that produces excess insulin, leading to low blood sugar levels
• Gastrinoma: a tumor that produces excess gastrin, leading to high stomach acid production and ulcers
• Glucagonoma: a tumor that produces excess glucagon, leading to high blood sugar levels and diabetes
• Somatostatinoma: a tumor that produces excess somatostatin, leading to low blood sugar levels and diabetes
• VIPoma: a tumor that produces excess vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration

Symptoms of Islet Cell Cancer

The symptoms of islet cell cancer vary depending on the type of tumor and the hormones it produces. Common symptoms include:

• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• High or low blood sugar levels
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Causes and Risk Factors of Islet Cell Cancer

The exact cause of islet cell cancer is not known, but several risk factors have been identified, including:

• Family history of the disease
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome
• Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome
• Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)
• Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)

Diagnosis of Islet Cell Cancer

Islet cell cancer is typically diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests, such as:

• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

Blood tests may also be used to measure hormone levels and detect tumor markers.

Treatment of Islet Cell Cancer

Treatment for islet cell cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
• Targeted therapy to block specific molecular pathways
• Hormone therapy to manage hormone imbalances
• Supportive care to manage symptoms and side effects

Prognosis of Islet Cell Cancer

The prognosis for islet cell cancer varies depending on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the effectiveness of treatment. In general, patients with localized tumors have a better prognosis than those with advanced disease.