Which condition is associated with necrolytic migratory erythema?

• A. Pancreatic cancer
• B. Insulinoma
• C. Glucagonoma
• D. Cushing’s syndrome

Answer: (C)

Necrolytic migratory erythema is a skin condition characterized by erythematous papules that progress to plaques and often form blisters, typically in the groin, perineum, and lower abdomen. It is particularly associated with glucagonoma, a rare tumor of the alpha cells of the pancreas that secretes excessive amounts of glucagon.

In patients with glucagonoma, the overproduction of glucagon leads to various metabolic derangements, including weight loss, diabetes mellitus, and the distinctive skin lesion. The correlation between glucagon excess and necrolytic migratory erythema has been well-documented in clinical literature, making this condition a classic presentation for individuals affected by glucagonoma.

The other conditions listed are not directly linked to this specific skin manifestation. For instance, pancreatic cancer can present with a multitude of signs and symptoms, but it does not typically induce necrolytic migratory erythema. Similarly, insulinomas primarily cause hypoglycemic episodes due to excess insulin rather than skin lesions. Cushing's syndrome, characterized by excess cortisol, can lead to skin changes but is not specifically associated with necrolytic migratory erythema. Thus, glucagonoma remains the most relevant