VIPoma
Alternative Names
Vasoactive intestinal peptide-producing tumor; Pancreatic endocrine tumorTreatment
The first goal of treatment is to correct dehydration. Intravenous (IV) fluids are often required to replace fluids lost in diarrhea.
The next goal is to slow the diarrhea. Some medications can help control the diarrhea, such as octreotide, which is a hormone.
The best chance for cure is surgery to remove the tumor. If the tumor has not metastasized (spread to other organs), surgery can often cure it.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Surgery can usually cure VIPomas, but about one-third to one-half of patients will have tumors that have spread by the time of diagnosis and are thus incurable.
Possible Complications
- Metastasis
- Dehydration
- Cardiac arrest from electrolyte imbalances
When to Contact a Medical Professional
If you have watery diarrhea for more than 2-3 days, you should call your doctor.
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