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Neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas

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Abstract

Pancreatic endocrine tumors are rare neoplasms accounting for less than 5% of pancreatic malignancies. They are broadly classified into either functioning tumors (insulinomas, gastrinomas, glucagonomas, VIPomas, and somatostatinomas) or nonfunctioning tumors. The diagnosis of these tumors is difficult and requires a careful history and examination combined with laboratory tests and radiologic imaging. Signs and symptoms are usually related to hormone hypersecretion in the case of functioning tumors and to tumor size or metastases with nonfunctioning tumors. Surgical resection remains the treatment of choice even in the face of metastatic disease. Further development of novel diagnostic and treatment modalities offers potential to greatly improve quality of life and prolong disease-free survival for patients with pancreatic endocrine tumors.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, Trinity College Dublin, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital incorporating the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland

    Kevin C. Conlon

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  1. Karen Davies
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  2. Kevin C. Conlon
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Correspondence to Kevin C. Conlon.

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Davies, K., Conlon, K.C. Neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 11, 119–127 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-009-0019-1

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