About 12,000 Americans are diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) each year. Though rare, NET rates have been rising due to better detection methods.
What is a neuroendocrine tumor?
Neuroendocrine tumors start in specialized cells called neuroendocrine cells. They can form in many different places in the body. They are most often found in the intestines, pancreas and lungs. Most are cancer (malignant), but some may not be cancer (benign). Their cause is often not known.
What is a gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumor?
Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors (GI-NETS) form in the gastrointestinal tract - including stomach, small bowel, appendix, colon and rectum. Many, but not all, of these tumors, are slow-growing. They can be "functional" (making excess hormones) or "nonfunctional" and vary in how fast they grow.
What are the symptoms of neuroendocrine tumors?
Symptoms depend on the type and location of the tumor. Many patients have minimal or no symptoms. Sometimes NETs release hormones that cause symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain, cramps bloating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Blood in stool, rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Flushed face, fatigue, nausea, vomiting
- Carcinoid syndrome: (with liver spread) flushing, wheezing, diarrhea due to excess hormones like serotonin
How are neuroendocrine tumors diagnosed and treated?
NETs are diagnosed using imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs and ultrasound tests. Blood and urine tests or a sample of tissue (biopsy) are also used. Some NETs may not need treatment right away. Your doctor may recommend watching your condition. Treatment may include:
- Surgery
- Hormone production control
- Medication management
- Targeted radiation
- Chemotherapy
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Ignite Healthwise, LLC. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
