Connect
Insulinoma testing at Mayo
Hi,
I recently saw an endocrinologist in my area (Utah) who suspects I may have an insulinoma, and recommended a 72-hour supervised fast to rule it out. However, he told me he was unable to facilitate the test, and that I may have to go to Mayo to get it done. Since the supervised fast only involves blood work and observation this seemed strange to me. However, after checking with several local doctors and hospitals, I have been informed that none of them will conduct the test, due to the inherent risks (severe symptoms induced by hypoglycemia). Basically it sounds like they are concerned about liability.
How common is it for patients to come to Mayo for specific testing (pre-diagnosis)? I've read that a doctor's referral goes a long way towards expediting the appointment process. Does this apply in this sort of scenario as well?
Also, if there is anyone reading this who has been tested for or diagnosed with an insulinoma, I would love to hear how coordinating the testing worked for you.
A little history:
I am a 27 year old female. For 2 1/2 years now I have been experiencing periodic episodes of low blood sugar during fasting. Each is accompanied by symptoms (hunger, shakiness, dizziness, palpitations, clumsiness, tingling, nausea, headache, abdominal discomfort, confusion), and relieved by glucose administration. When the episodes first began, they were very frequent, and waking me up from sleep. I had to get up every few hours to have a snack. Since then I have since been able to reduce and manage them by strictly adhering to a low glycemic index diet and eating small meals every 2-3 hours.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Diabetes & Endocrine System Support Group.
Connect
I have learned today I am also having an intra-arterial calcium stimulation test during my week visit to Mayo. Just curious of what is involved and how the test goes . . . Anyone have any information? Most of what can be found on the internet is in medical journals and not so much about what happens from the patient perspective. Thanks for any information.
@hopeful33250, have you ever had an intra-arterial calcium stimulation test? AHTaylor is looking for first-hand experiences with the test.
@ahtaylor Thanks for sharing your symptoms and diagnostic tests. I am not familiar with the intra-arterial calcium stimulation test you mentioned. It will be of interest to many of us if you let us know about it, though. I appreciate your sharing your health journey with us. What is the date of your visit to Mayo? Please keep us posted and best wishes as you go to Mayo. I've heard wonderful comments about the doctors at Mayo.
Thanks for the reply. I will be at Mayo all of next week. I have a series of well coordinated test and provider visits. This will be my first experience at Mayo but I am impressed so far. They have made sure my visit will be comprehensive and well worth the travel.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsHi. I’m am 43 and for 2 years battling the same issues you are. As I type I’m in the hotel awaiting my appointment for tomorrow at Mayo in MN. 72 hour fast. I’ll keep you posted
Hi! How did your fast at Mayo go?
I am going in two weeks to also do the 72 hour fast. I'd love any insight on what to expect
Our situations are so similar! My issues started after my gastric bypass surgery in 2021. I can only consume a maximum carb count of 10. I drop within 30-1 hour also. If I take more glucose tabs than 1.5-2, I will raise to fast and then drop again. I am currently waiting on a MRI of my Pancreas. I wonder if this will show an Insulinoma if there is one there?