Hypoglycemia/Insulinoma

Question 1

definition of hypoglycemia

Answer 1

low plasma glucose AND Whipple’s triad:

1. symptoms/signs consistent with hypoglycemia
2. low measured plasma glucose concentration
3. resolution of symptoms/signs with increasing plasma glucose

Question 2

the first physiological response to a low glucose is ______________________, followed by ______________________ and then __________________. ________________ are later physiologic responses.

Answer 2

reduction in insulin secretion; an increase in glucagon; an increase in epinephrine; cortisol and growth hormone

Question 3

which drug causes proinsulin and C-peptide to be incresed?

Answer 3

sulfonylureas (glipizide, glyburide, glimepride) because they stimulate insulin release from the pancreas

Question 4

if someone has an insulinoma, should beta-hydroxybutyrate be high or low during fasting? why?

Answer 4

low because insulin has an antiketogenic effect and therefore would suppress beta-hydroxybutyrate formation