What is a characteristic symptom of glucagonoma?

A characteristic symptom of glucagonoma is the presence of skin lesions with vesiculobullous characteristics, commonly referred to as necrolytic migratory erythema. This condition is typically associated with glucagonoma, a rare type of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, and is characterized by red, blistering lesions that often appear on the face, groin, and other areas of the body, frequently accompanied by itching or burning.

While elevated blood glucose levels can occur due to the hyperglycemic effect of glucagon, it is not a definitive symptom unique to glucagonoma, as other conditions can lead to elevated blood glucose as well. Recurrent abdominal pain may occur but is not specific to glucagonoma either, as it can be associated with many gastrointestinal disorders. Weight gain is generally not a feature of glucagonoma; rather, patients commonly experience weight loss due to the effects of glucagon on metabolism, including increased gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, leading to catabolism of body tissues.

Understanding these specific symptoms helps in making the diagnosis of glucagonoma more accurate and aids in distinguishing it from other conditions that might present with similar general signs.