Glucose Turnover and Recycling in Colorectal Carcinoma

Abstract

Glucose metabolism is affected by various pathologic states including tumors. Glucose turnover and recycling rates in 11 patients with colorectal carcinoma were measured using a double-labeled 3-3H and 1-14C glucose injection technique. Fasting blood glucose, lactate, pyruvate, alanine, glycerol, 3-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, plasma cortisol and plasma insulin concentrations were also measured. No patient had a history of diabetes mellitus or endocrine disorders, nor any abnormal liver function tests. A significantly elevated glucose turnover rate was demonstrated in patients with Dukes C and D lesions in comparison to patients with Dukes B lesions. Cori recycling rates were not significantly different between Dukes B vs. Dukes C and D patients. There were not differences between Dukes B and Dukes C and D patients in any of the metabolites measured. There were no significant differences in glucose turnover or recycling rates as a function of pre-illness weight loss. When colorectal carcinoma extends beyond the limits of the bowel wall, glucose metabolism may be significantly altered.