Innovative Noninvasive Technique Developed for Insulinoma Diagnosis

Recent research has led to the creation of a novel noninvasive diagnostic method for insulinomas, a type of tumor that results in excessive insulin production by the pancreas. This condition often causes severe hypoglycemia, which can lead to serious health complications like convulsions or impaired consciousness.

Traditionally, the definitive treatment for insulinomas involves surgical removal, which necessitates accurate localization of the tumor. However, current diagnostic approaches often lack sensitivity or are highly invasive, highlighting a pressing need for improved detection methods.

A research team spearheaded by experts at Kyoto University has responded to this challenge. They have developed an innovative imaging technique utilizing a specialized positron emission tomography (PET) probe that targets glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, which are abundantly present on insulinoma cells.

In a Phase II clinical trial, the team enrolled 12 patients experiencing hypoglycemic episodes and suspected to have insulinomas. Their findings, documented in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, indicate that this new diagnostic probe achieved a remarkable 100% accuracy rate in identifying the tumors across all participants.

The results from the PET and computed tomography (CT) scans demonstrated that the new method surpassed traditional imaging techniques such as CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), endoscopic ultrasonography, and selective arterial calcium stimulation tests in terms of sensitivity. Notably, the probe was able to detect tumors that were challenging to identify using existing methods.

Following the surgical removal of the identified lesions, pathology confirmed them as insulinomas, and all patients reported complete resolution of their hypoglycemic symptoms post-surgery. This outcome underscores the clinical efficacy of the newly developed diagnostic technique.

In addition to diagnosing insulinomas, this imaging method holds promise for broader applications in other medical fields. It may aid in identifying nesidioblastosis and other forms of unexplained hypoglycemia, as well as assist in monitoring disease progression in diabetes.

The research team aims to promote the international adoption of this diagnostic method to alleviate patient burdens while enhancing the accuracy of insulinoma detection and supporting diabetes staging and characterization globally.

For further details, consult the original publication: Takaaki Murakami et al, Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses of Noninvasive Diagnosis of Insulinoma Using [18F]FB(ePEG12) 12-Exendin-4 PET/CT, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2025).