PTHrP-Secreting Pancreatic Tumor: Acute Encephalopathy & Hypercalcemia
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Acute Encephalopathy and Hypercalcemia linked to Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor
Table of Contents
Published September 19, 2025
A recent case report details an unusual presentation of a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET) – acute encephalopathy and severe hypercalcemia – highlighting the importance of considering PNETs in differential diagnoses for these symptoms. The case was documented in a report published by Curet, based on findings from google News.
Case presentation
The patient initially presented wiht acute encephalopathy and significantly elevated calcium levels (hypercalcemia). Further investigation revealed the presence of a large pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor secreting parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP), according to the case report.
PTHrP and Hypercalcemia
PTHrP is a protein that, similar to parathyroid hormone, can increase calcium levels in the blood. The tumor’s secretion of PTHrP led to the severe hypercalcemia observed in the patient, which in turn contributed to the encephalopathy. This highlights how ectopic hormone production by neuroendocrine tumors can cause complex and possibly life-threatening clinical presentations.
Diagnostic Challenges
The initial presentation of encephalopathy and hypercalcemia can be attributed to various causes. This case underscores the importance of considering PNETs, particularly when hypercalcemia is severe or unexplained, and emphasizes the need for thorough investigation to identify the underlying etiology.