Islet Cell Carcinoma

Islet cell carcinoma, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET), 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.

What are Islet Cells?

Islet cells, also known as islets of Langerhans, are clusters of cells located within the pancreas. They produce several important hormones, including insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide, which help regulate blood sugar levels, digestion, and other bodily functions.

Types of Islet Cell Carcinoma

There are several types of islet cell carcinoma, including:

• Insulinoma: a tumor that produces excess insulin, leading to low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia)
• Glucagonoma: a tumor that produces excess glucagon, leading to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), skin rash, and other symptoms
• Gastrinoma: a tumor that produces excess gastrin, leading to excessive acid production in the stomach and peptic ulcers
• Somatostatinoma: a tumor that produces excess somatostatin, leading to diabetes, gallstones, and other symptoms
• PPoma (Pancreatic Polypeptide-secreting tumor): a tumor that produces excess pancreatic polypeptide, which can lead to a range of symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss
• Non-functioning islet cell carcinoma: a tumor that does not produce excess hormones, but can still cause symptoms due to its size or location

Symptoms of Islet Cell Carcinoma

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

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
• Skin rash or lesions

Diagnosis and Treatment of Islet Cell Carcinoma

Diagnosis of islet cell carcinoma typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans, and laboratory tests to measure hormone levels. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
• Targeted therapy to block specific molecular pathways involved in tumor growth
• Hormone therapy to manage symptoms related to hormone imbalances

Prognosis and Outlook

The prognosis for islet cell carcinoma varies depending on the type of tumor, its size and location, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. With early diagnosis and treatment, some patients with islet cell carcinoma can experience long-term survival or even cure.