Etymed
glucagonoma
Definition
A tumor that produces and secretes glucagon, typically arising from the pancreas
Clinical context
A 52-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 3-week history of weight loss, weakness, and a characteristic rash on his face and extremities. He also reports episodes of confusion and palpitations. Physical examination reveals a cachectic patient with erythematous, scaly lesions on his face and bilateral hands. Laboratory studies show hyperglycemia and elevated serum glucagon levels. A pancreatic mass is identified on CT scan. The patient's symptoms are attributed to excessive glucagon secretion from a pancreatic tumor.
Mnemonic
GLUCAGONOMA - Glucagon causes Glucose Loss, Ulcers, and Cutaneous lesions with Overproduction of Amino acids