Final answer:
High levels of insulin due to an insulinoma result in decreased blood glucose and hypoglycemia. The correct answer is A) Decreases, hypoglycemia. Conversely, Type 1 diabetes, due to lack of insulin production, leads to hyperglycemia, which is the opposite effect of an insulinoma.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we have high levels of insulin, as would be the case with an insulinoma (a tumor of insulin-secreting cells), the blood glucose level falls. This is because insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose by cells, therefore reducing glucose concentration in the bloodstream. Consequently, the individual can experience hypoglycemia, which is characterized by abnormally low levels of blood glucose. The correct answer to the question is: A) Decreases, hypoglycemia.
Looking at the pathology of diabetes, especially Type 1 diabetes, which results from the failure of the pancreas to produce insulin, we can see a contrary effect. Without sufficient insulin, blood glucose levels remain high, leading to hyperglycemia. Therefore, a pancreatic tumor causing excess insulin and Type 1 diabetes which results in insufficient insulin will have opposite effects on blood sugar levels.
Given these points, an increased level of glucose in the blood stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin, helping to reduce blood glucose levels, and conversely, when blood glucose levels are low, the hormone glucagon is secreted to promote the increase of blood glucose. Understanding the balance between insulin and glucagon secretion is essential in managing conditions like diabetes mellitus and insulinoma.