Hyperinsulinism: What are the symptoms, causes?

characterized by hyperinsulinism Excessive insulin secretion, often secondary to metabolic syndrome. When the level of insulin in the fasting blood increases, we talk about hyperinsulinism Greater than 15 mIU/mL.

What are the reasons?

“May have hyperinsulinism Genetic origin (rare diseases), Associated with insufficient carbohydrate or calorie intake Consuming more calories than usual or for excitement Pancreas in uteroDr Olivier reports to Dupuy. If the mother’s blood sugar is high (gestational diabetes or “true” diabetes), the fetus will produce more insulin. The Newborns are more fragile at birth

And there is a risk of hypoglycemia because it produces too much insulin. Ultimately, this extra insulin puts you at risk of becoming overweight or even obese.” Insulin resistance (when glucose cannot enter cells to be used as an energy source despite constant insulin secretion) also causes hyperinsulinism. more rarely, Tumor of the pancreas May cause hyperinsulinism.

What are the symptoms?

In newborns, hyperinsulinism is mainly manifested by Macrosomia (a baby weighing more than 4 kg) and possibly hypoglycemia. “In adults, hyperinsulinism is often asymptomatic. It can also manifest as Metabolic syndromeie: increased waist circumference, high blood pressure, dysglycaemia (moderate fasting hyperglycaemia or diabetes) and abnormal lipid parameters, often associated with other diseases such as NASH or PCOS“, refers to the endocrinologist.

Diagnosis is based on this Blood sugar measurement And very simply Waist measurement.

“On the other hand, plasma insulin is rarely measured because it is a test that is not very reliable and expensive. Measuring waist circumference is the easiest, most reliable, and most economical tool to detect hyperinsulinism and, by extension, metabolic syndrome.Expert comments.

What is the treatment?

At birth, severe hypoglycemia Should be treated immediately. Depends on the treatment Continuous glucose administration by glucagon infusion and injection

To stabilize insulin secretion. As the first purpose, diazoxide is used. In case of resistance to this molecule, octreotide is added. This is an exceptional treatment for rare conditions. Thereafter, if possible, blood glucose should be monitored daily with a sensor. Thereafter, general treatment of hyperinsulinism is essentially based on healthy living. It specifically includes A specific diet, low in calories and low in fast-absorbing sugars. Physical activity is a key element of treatment. “Hyperinsulinism is problematic because it forms A reflection of visceral fat which is harmful to healthEspecially in that it is associated with increased cardiovascular risk“, concludes our interlocutor.

Head of Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology at Paris Saint-Joseph Hospital, Dr. Thanks to Olivier Dupuy.