What condition is characterized by excessive levels of circulating insulin in the blood?

Hyperinsulinemia is characterized by excessive levels of insulin circulating in the blood. This condition often occurs in individuals who have insulin resistance—a situation where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin. As a response, the pancreas produces more insulin to help manage blood glucose levels, leading to elevated insulin in the bloodstream.

In hyperinsulinemia, the high insulin levels can result in various metabolic issues, including increased fat storage, hunger, and potentially leading to further complications such as type 2 diabetes if not managed properly. Understanding this condition is crucial for recognizing metabolic health issues and developing effective interventions.

The other options relate to different conditions: hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, hypoglycemia indicates low blood sugar levels, and insulin resistance focuses on the body's response to insulin rather than the amount of insulin itself. Thus, hyperinsulinemia stands out as the correct answer for this question regarding excessive insulin in circulation.