Whipple's triad

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Whipple's triad is a collection of three criteria that suggest a patient's symptoms result from hypoglycemia caused by an insulinoma, a type of pancreatic tumor. The triad was named after Allen Whipple, an American surgeon who first described the condition in 1938.

Criteria[edit | edit source]

The three criteria of Whipple's triad are:

  1. Symptoms consistent with hypoglycemia
  2. Low plasma glucose at the time of symptoms
  3. Relief of symptoms when glucose levels are raised

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from person to person, but often include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Whipple's triad is often used as a diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients with suspected insulinoma. However, it is not definitive proof of the condition. Further tests, such as a fasting test or imaging studies, may be required to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for insulinoma typically involves surgical removal of the tumor. In some cases, medication may be used to manage symptoms until surgery can be performed.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Whipple's triad Resources

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