Islet cell tumors can either be functional or non-functional. Which term correctly identifies this tumor type?

• A. Islet cell
• B. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
• C. Acinar cell tumor
• D. Serous cystadenoma

Answer: (A)

Islet cell tumors come from the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas, the islets of Langerhans. These tumors can secrete hormones (functional) or not secrete clinically significant hormones (non-functional). Because the defining feature is the origin from the islet cells, the term that correctly identifies this tumor type is “islet cell.” Other pancreatic neoplasms arise from different tissue: ductal epithelium, exocrine acinar tissue, or cystic components, which is why they don’t carry the same identification. In current practice, these tumors are often referred to as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, but the exam term emphasizes the islet cell origin.