Treatment
The first goal of treatment is to correct dehydration. Fluids are often given through a vein (intravenous fluids) to replace fluids lost in diarrhea.
The next goal is to slow the diarrhea. Some medications can help control diarrhea. Ocreotide, which is a man-made form of a natural hormone, blocks the action of VIP.
The best chance for a cure is surgery to remove the tumor. If the tumor has not spread to other organs, surgery can often cure it.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Surgery can usually cure VIPomas. However, in one-third to one-half of patients, the tumors have spread by the time of diagnosis and are not curable.
Complications
- Cancer spread (metastasis)
- Cardiac arrest from electrolyte imbalances
- Dehydration
Calling Your Health Care Provider
If you have watery diarrhea for more than 2-3 days, call your doctor.
Pictures & Images
Pancreas
The pancreas is an elongated, tapered gland that is located behind the stomach and secretes digestive enzymes and the hormones insulin and glucagon.
Review Date : 9/4/2008
Reviewed By : Sean O. Stitham, MD, private practice in Internal Medicine, Seattle, Washington; and James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
