Whipple's triad

System: Hormone & Metabolic Signs · All hormone & metabolic signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

Three findings together: symptoms consistent with low blood sugar, a measured low blood glucose at the time, and relief of the symptoms when glucose is given.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with true hypoglycaemia disorders, classically an insulin-secreting tumour (insulinoma).

◈ Behind the name

Allen Oldfather Whipple (1881–1963), American surgeon.

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.