Glucagonoma

Definition:

A tumor of the pancreas which secretes the hormone glucagon.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Glucagonoma is usually malignant (growing worse - resisting treatment). The islet cells of the pancreas are affected, and symptoms relate to glucose intolerance. Spreading (metastasis) to the liver may occur with this type of cancer. It also causes a distinctive skin lesion called necrolytic migratory erythema. The cause is unknown, but genetic factors play a role with some people. Risk factors include a family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia, type I (MEN I).