[Non-functioning tumors of the endocrine pancreas. Concept, diagnosis, treatment]

Five cases of nonfunctioning islet cell tumors of the pancreas are reported. There were 3 males and 2 females aged from 34 to 83 years (Average: 55.8 years). Two tumors were malignant since already metastatic, one tumor was probably malignant and two tumors were judged as benign. One patient died post-operatively. The four remaining patients are alive without recurrence after from 1.4 to 7.3 years. The concepts of nonfunctioning tumors of the pancreas and APUD system are discussed in view of these 5 cases and the relevant literature. The value of tumor markers as well as the radiographic appearances of these tumors are reported. Having a better prognosis than the adenocarcinoma of the exocrine pancreas, the nonfunctioning tumors of the endocrine pancreas are best managed by surgery. The indications and the results of surgery and chemotherapy are discussed.