Question 1

Which tumor types are associated with non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH)?

Accepted Answer

More than 15 tumor types, typically of mesenchymal or epithelial origin, have been discovered to drive big IGF-2 production and resulting hypoglycemia.

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of NICTH?

Accepted Answer

Non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH) is associated with malignant or benign extra-pancreatic tumors that secrete insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2), which activates insulin receptors. In NICTH, increased bioavailability of IGF-2 suppresses glucose production and increases peripheral glucose uptake, leading to recurrent IGF-2-mediated hypoglycemia.

Question 3

Is it possible for NICTH to present with latent symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Even moderate hypoglycemia symptoms, such as a slowing of motor skills or mild disorientation, can implicate NICTH—especially in patients with a known malignancy. Patients may not even notice the autonomic warnings of hypoglycemia, or mischaracterize them as psychiatric symptoms. This makes awareness critical to timely diagnosis.

Question 4

What is the clinical workup for NICTH?

Accepted Answer

In all patient types, the clinical criteria for hypoglycemia should be met before tailoring a diagnostic approach to the patient history.

Question 5

Are there guidelines for the management of NICTH?

Accepted Answer

Evidence-based guidelines for the management of NICTH have yet to be established. While resection is the preferred standard of care to mitigate both tumor growth and associated hypoglycemia, it is often unfeasible due to the progression of the tumor or delayed diagnosis, leaving patients reliant on suboptimal medical management.

Question 6

Is diazoxide appropriate for managing hypoglycemia in non-islet cell tumors?

Accepted Answer

Although diazoxide has limited success in the management of hypoglycemia related to pancreatic tumors (insulinoma), it has no effective role in the management of NICTH because it lacks the mechanism to inhibit IGF-2 activity, the driver of recurrent hypoglycemia associated with non-islet cell tumors.

Question 7

Why isn't standard of care for hypoglycemia sustainable in patients with NICTH?

Accepted Answer

In NICTH, the relentless activity of big IGF-2 secreted by the tumor drives repeated hypoglycemia. Unlike mature IGF-2, big IGF-2 has a higher affinity for insulin receptors, increasing its bioactivity and facilitating repeated fasting hypoglycemia. This makes it challenging to sustainably restore patient glucose levels to baseline.

Resources

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NICTH Brochure

Frequently Asked Questions