Necrolytic migratory erythema (NME) is the hallmark cutaneous sign of which internal tumour?
- A Insulinoma
- B Glucagonoma ✓
- C VIPoma
- D Carcinoid tumour
Correct answer: B. Glucagonoma
Explanation
Necrolytic migratory erythema is the classic skin marker of glucagonoma—a rare alpha-cell pancreatic tumour. The rash is cyclical, with blistering, crusting, erosions and hyperpigmentation, typically affecting the perineum, thighs and lower abdomen. It results from glucagon excess causing zinc and essential fatty acid deficiency and hypoaminoacidaemia. The glucagonoma syndrome also includes diabetes, weight loss, anaemia and DVT. Carcinoid causes flushing; VIPoma causes WDHA syndrome without skin signs.
Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.