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VIPoma

Definition:
VIPomas are cancerous tumors that affect a type of hormone-secreting cell in the pancreas. VIPomas cause diarrhea, hypokalemia (low blood potassium), and a decrease in the amount of acid in the stomach.

Alternative Names:
Vasoactive intestinal peptide-producing tumor; Pancreatic endocrine tumor

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

VIPomas affect cells in the pancreas that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). The cancer causes symptoms by producing high levels of this hormone. The cause is not known.

VIPomas are usually diagnosed in adulthood, most commonly at age 50 or so. Women are more likely to be affected than men.



Review Date: 8/23/2002
Reviewed By: Scott Howard, M.D., M.S., Memphis, TN. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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