The somatostatinoma syndrome is caused by a islet cell or other neuroendocrine tumor that secretes somatostatin. The clinical features reflect the physiologic effects of this hormone.
Most somatostatinomas arise in the pancreas with the remainder in the duodenum and jejunum. Most are malignant.
Effect of Somatostatin
Clinical Finding
inhibition of gastric acid secretion
achlorhydria
increased intestinal motility
diarrhea
decreased intestinal absorption of fat
steatorrhea
inhibition of cholecystokinin secretion
gallbladder disease
inhibition of insulin secretion
diabetes mellitus
Other effects of somatostatin: decreased secretion of glucagon, gastrin, and other gastrointestinal tract hormones
Other clinical findings:
(1) unintended weight loss
(2) elevated serum levels of somatostatin
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