Insulin-secreting β-cell neoplasia in a 7-year-old female dog, case report and review

Abstract

A 7-year-old female dog presented with intermittent episodes of urinary incontinence, tremors, intermittent episodes of pelvic limb weakness and collapse, and lethargy were noticed over a period of two months. Hypoglycaemia, secondary to an insulin-secreting β-cell tumour, was suspected on the basis of clinical signs, ultrasound and serum biochemistry. A laparotomy was then performed to remove the tumour mass. Post-surgical pancreatitis was a major complication. Histology revealed a malignant neuroendocrine neoplasia of the β-cells of the pancreas. This case review is reported to keep clinicians abreast of the canine insulinoma disorder and the complications surrounding its diagnosis and treatment.

Keywords

• insulinoma
• neoplasia
• hypoglycaemia
• diabetes
• pancreas
• beta cell
• canine