Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a type of cancer that develop in the neuroendocrine system. This system includes the parts of the body that are responsible for producing hormones and controlling the body’s functions. NETs can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Types of Neuroendocrine Tumours
There are several different types of NETs, including:
Carcinoid Tumours: Carcinoid tumors are the most common type of NET. They usually develop in the digestive system, including the appendix, small intestine, and rectum. They can also develop in the lungs and other organs. Carcinoid tumors typically grow slowly and may not cause any symptoms.
Pheochromocytoma: Pheochromocytomas are NETs that develop in the adrenal glands. These tumors cause the glands to produce too much of the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, leading to symptoms such as high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and sweating.
Gastrinoma: Gastrinomas are tumors that develop in the pancreas. They cause the cells to produce too much of the hormone gastrin, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
Insulinoma: Insulinomas are NETs that develop in the pancreas. They cause the cells to produce too much of the hormone insulin, leading to symptoms such as low blood sugar, weakness, and confusion.
VIPoma: VIPomas are NETs that develop in the pancreas. They cause the cells to produce too much of the hormone vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), leading to symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and dehydration.
Treatment for Neuroendocrine Tumours
The treatment for NETs depends on the type and size of the tumor. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used.