Neuroendocrine Tumor
Understanding Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs):
A Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) is a type of growth that begins in the specialized cells of the neuroendocrine system. These unique cells act like nerve cells but also produce hormones.
Where they occur?
NETs can develop anywhere in the body, but they are most commonly found in:
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract (where they are often called carcinoids), particularly in the duodenum (upper small intestine) and the rectum (lower large intestine).
- The appendix.
- The pancreas.
- The lungs.
What are the Symptoms?
NETs are sometimes discovered completely by chance during routine tests like an endoscopy, ultrasound, or CT scan because they can be "silent" (cause no immediate symptoms). When symptoms do appear, they can be varied:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Fluctuations in blood sugar levels
- Skin rash
- Anxiety
What causes NETs?
The exact cause of NETs is unknown. We do know they occur when there is a change or mistake (mutation) in the DNA of the neuroendocrine cells, causing them to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor.
How they are Diagnosed?
NETs are typically detected and confirmed using several specialized tests:
- Endoscopy: Can find tumors located in the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
- Specialized Scans: Imaging tests like a CT scan, MRI, PET-CT, or a general ultrasound are used to locate and characterize the tumors.
- DOTANOC Test: This is a very specific nuclear medicine scan used to locate these types of tumors throughout the body.
- Blood and Urine Tests: Used to measure the levels of hormones or other substances produced by the tumor cells.
- Biopsies: Taking a small sample of the tumor tissue to examine under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options:
Treatment for NETs varies based on the tumor's size, location, and whether it has spread:
- Endoscopic Removal: Small tumors, especially those in the GI tract, can sometimes be removed using an endoscope without major surgery.
- Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor is a standard treatment option.
- Medication: Specific drugs are used, often to control the hormones produced by the tumor or to slow its growth.
- Chemotherapy: Medications used to kill the tumor cells.
- Radiotherapy: Using high-energy beams to destroy tumor cells.