Final answer:
Hypoglycemia is often associated with tumors of the "pancreatic alpha" cells, which secrete excess glucagon leading to low blood sugar levels, the opposite effect of Type I diabetes which is characterized by high blood sugar levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blood glucose levels below 60 mg/dL are concerning for hypoglycemia, which can be consistent with a tumor of the "pancreatic alpha" cells. These tumors may cause excess secretion of glucagon, which in turn raises blood sugar levels, having a hyperglycemic effect. While Type I diabetes is caused by the failure of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels, a tumor involving the alpha cells can cause low blood sugar levels by producing excessive glucagon, which stimulates glycogen breakdown and gluconeogenesis to increase blood glucose levels. Therefore, the correct statement about the two conditions is: a. A pancreatic tumor and Type I diabetes will have the opposite effects on blood sugar levels.