Hypoglycaemia in a patient with undiagnosed Doege–Potter syndrome
Abstract
Doege-Potter syndrome (DPS) is a rare paraneoplastic disorder characterised by non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia (NICTH), resulting from ectopic secretion of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-II) by solitary fibrous tumours (SFTs). We describe the case of an 85-year-old woman, presenting in October 2024, with a chronic subdural haematoma and profound intraoperative hypoglycaemia. Further investigation revealed a large pleural mass; the pathophysiological findings were consistent with DPS, and histopathology confirmed a malignant SFT. Hypoglycaemia resolved after complete tumour resection. The current case highlights the importance of considering NICTH in older patients with unexplained, treatment-resistant hypoglycaemia, especially when comorbidities (like subdural hematoma) mask the clinical picture. A focused narrative review accompanies this report, providing clinicians with practical insights into the spectrum of clinical presentations, diagnostic work-up, therapeutic modalities, and anaesthetic considerations in DPS. Early recognition is crucial to avoid serious complications. Complete surgical removal remains the cornerstone of effective management, while alternative therapies may be needed in inoperable cases.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Soft tissue tumor case studies
Pituitary Gland Disorders and Treatments
Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Advances
Publication details
- Journal / source
- European Journal of Anaesthesiology Intensive Care
- Volume
- 5
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- e0099–e0099
- Publication date
- 3 March 2026
- Language
- EN