Allen O. Whipple, M.D. (Sept 2, 1881 to April 6, 1963) and Whipple’s Triad
Submitted by Alan D. Rogol, M.D., Ph.D.
Whipple’s triad is a collection of three clinical features indicating hyperinsulinism: autonomic or neuroglycopenic symptoms of hypoglycemia, e.g., shakiness or sweating; low plasma glucose concentration; and, resolution of these symptoms when plasma glucose levels are raised (Ann Surg 1935; 101:1299-1335). It is usually diagnosed in those with an insulin-secreting tumor, but also may apply to children with congenital hyperinsulinism. Whipple, a graduate of Princeton and Columbia Medical School was a well-respected general surgeon, who later led the Columbia Department of Surgery. He devised the pancreaticoduodenectomy, (Whipple procedure), for cancer of the head of the pancreas: removal of the head of the pancreas, the first part of the duodenum, gall bladder and bile duct (Ann Surg 1935; 102:763-769).