Nonfunctioning islet cell carcinoma of the pancreas

Islet cell cancers of the pancreas may follow an indolent course. Unlike adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, which is considered inoperable for cure in the presence of metastatic disease, islet cell carcinoma of the pancreas in selected cases warrants an aggressive approach toward resection. Significant palliation may be obtained from resection of primary tumors despite the presence of liver metastases. Furthermore, resection or ablation of limited, metastatic disease in the liver may be indicated. Therapeutic decisions must consider the patient's symptoms, coexisting morbidities, and the extent of the disease.