Insulinoma Presenting as a Complex Partial Seizure: Still a Possible Misleading Factor

Abstract

Delayed diagnosis of insulinoma remains an intractable clinical challenge because the symptoms are in most cases misattributed to other disorders. In this study, a 64-yearold man presented with intermittent seizure episodes after being misdiagnosed with epilepsy and receiving anti-epileptic drugs for 4 years. During this period, the patient continued to suffer from repeated seizures. A starvation test, pancreatic enhancement CT, MRI scan, and pathological examination clinically diagnosed insulinoma, and the symptoms improved following surgical removal of the tumor. The appearance of unusual manifestations and insulinoma imaging makes it difficult to accurately diagnose the condition. This case emphasizes the need for careful reassessment of all atypical and refractory seizures for neurologists.

Insulinoma Treated As Epilepsy; a Case of Misdiagnosis

“…Over half of patients with these symptoms are initially misdiagnosed with neuropsychiatric disorders such as epilepsy [1,3]. The siezures can be tonic-clonic, complex partial or absence seizures [4][5][6]. However, correct diagnosis of epilepsy is also challenging in clinical settings and can lead to inappropriate treatment with antiepileptic medication.…”

Case Report: Insulinoma Presenting as Excessive Daytime Somnolence

“…Insulinoma is the most common functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, with a reported incidence of 0.5-5 per million person-years (1). In over 90% of cases, they are solitary and benign (2).…”