The hypoglicemic syndrome (insulinoma): topical, pathomorphological, and genetic diagnostics and treatment (review, part 2)

Insulinoma is the most common functioning tumor of the pancreas. It consists of β-cells of the Langerhans islets. Insulinoma is malignant in 10% of cases and multifocal in 10% of cases. This review discusses the new capabilities for identification of the exact location of insulinoma, in particular given the latest data on expression of different receptors in the tumor tissue. We discuss the modern concept of molecular and genetic aspects of insulinoma development. In particular, we analyze studies on germinal and somatic mutations and epigenetic abnormalities. We describe new biochemical markers of insulinoma, which may be used for differential diagnosis, timely detection of insulinoma recurrence and progression, individual prognosis, and monitoring of treatment. Also, we discuss application of antitumor medications and optimal drug correction of hypoglycemia in insulinoma patients.

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