Novel Use of Dasiglucagon, a Soluble Glucagon Analog, for the Treatment of Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia Secondary to Suspected Insulinoma: A Case Report

Horm Res Paediatr. 2024;97(2):187-194. doi: 10.1159/000531251. Epub 2023 Jul 14.

Abstract

Introduction: Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia is the most common cause of persistent hypoglycemia in children and adults. In adolescents and adults, hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia is most frequently caused by an insulin-producing tumor.

Case presentation: A 17-year-old, previously healthy male presented with recurrent and severe episodes of hypoglycemia. Diagnostic evaluation was consistent with hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, and an insulinoma was suspected. Multiple imaging studies and surgical exploration failed to identify a lesion. Over the course of months, the patient was found to be refractory to conventional medical interventions.

Conclusion: Upon approval from the US Food and Drug Administration and the Institutional Review Board, the patient was treated with dasiglucagon, a novel soluble glucagon analog, under a single-patient Investigational New Drug. The patient has tolerated the medication and has been able to achieve appropriate glycemic control.

Keywords: Case report; Glucagon; Hypoglycemia; Insulin; Pancreas.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Glucagon* / analogs & derivatives
  • Glucagon* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hyperinsulinism* / complications
  • Hyperinsulinism* / drug therapy
  • Hypoglycemia* / drug therapy
  • Hypoglycemia* / pathology
  • Insulinoma / complications
  • Insulinoma / diagnosis
  • Insulinoma / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / complications
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / drug therapy

Substances

  • dasiglucagon
  • Glucagon