Case Report

Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia Precipitated by Weight Loss

Authors: Maria S. Prelipcean, MD, Patrick J. O'Neil, MB, David S. H. Bell, MB

Abstract

Objective: To describe a case of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia precipitated by weight loss.


Methods: We present a detailed case report and results of a related literature search on hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia precipitated by weight loss.


Results: The presence of an insulinoma was unveiled by voluntary weight loss and reduction of insulin resistance. Hypoglycemia occurred during the postprandial period and not at night. The diagnostic workup was accomplished without hospital admission.


Conclusion: Classically, insulinomas present with weight gain and fasting hypoglycemia but may present with postprandial hypoglycemia and weight loss. Voluntary weight loss, by lowering insulin resistance, accelerates the time to clinical presentation of an asymptomatic insulinoma.


Key Points


* Insulinoma revealed by voluntary weight loss.


* Hyperinsulinemia can present with postprandial hypoglycemia.


* Insulinoma can be diagnosed in an outpatient setting.

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