Neuroendocrine Tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors. Specialized cells in your neuroendocrine system are the initial site of a rare type of tumor known as neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Though they can develop anywhere there are neuroendocrine cells in your body, they are most frequently found in the GI tract, lungs, and pancreas. More people are living with NET for years thanks to early identification and therapy.

NEUROENDOCRINE TUMORS

However, the cancers known as neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) start in neuroendocrine cells, which are cells that produce hormones and are present all over the body. These cancers can develop in the pancreas, lungs, digestive tract, and other organs (carcinoid tumors). In general, NETs develop slowly, but some might be aggressive and release a lot of hormones, which can cause a lot of symptoms.

Types

Meanwhile, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is where gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors (GI-NETs) most frequently begin. The rectum, appendix, or intestines are where most begin. Carcinoid tumors were the previous name for GI-NETs.
Neuroendocrine tumors of the lung: These tumors begin in the bronchi, which are the tubes that transport air from your windpipe to your lungs. Previously referred to as carcinoid tumors, they are the second most prevalent type of NET.
One kind of pancreatic cancer is called a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (P-NET), which begins in the pancreas. The third most prevalent NET type is P-NET.

Signs

Neuroendocrine tumors frequently don’t show any symptoms until they affect an organ. Location affects the symptoms when this occurs. NET symptoms could be:
Fatigue.
Pain in the stomach
Diarrhea.
vomiting and nausea.
breathlessness.
coughing, occasionally with blood in it.
It’s critical to keep in mind that these symptoms are not necessarily indicative of cancer. Speak with a medical professional if your symptoms don’t go away.

Causes

Also, when neuroendocrine cells start to divide and proliferate uncontrolled, NETs are created. They eventually develop into tumors that may impact the organs in which the cells are found. The cause of the aberrant cell proliferation that results in neuroendocrine tumors is unknown to researchers.

Treatment

Somatostatin analogues: These drugs stop your body from producing too many hormones. They have the ability to halt tumor growth and lessen functional NET symptoms.
Chemotherapy: With this treatment, cancer cells are killed using a variety of medications.
Targeted therapy: This method of treatment involves using medications to kill cancer cells by focusing on certain genes or proteins.
The treatment of NET may involve the use of specialized types of internal radiation therapy. For instance, peptide receptor radionuclide treatment (PRRT) gives hormone-secreting NETs trace amounts of a radioactive material. NETs that have migrated to your liver are treated with radioactive beads using the Y-90 technique.

Prevention

Although, there is little you can do to stop NETs because experts are unsure of their cause. However, you can comprehend possible risk factors, such as having multiple endocrine neoplasia, which is an inherited condition. To find out if your family history increases your risk of having NETs, consult your healthcare physician.

Summary

After being identified with a neuroendocrine tumor (NET), many people search for the cause of their poor health for years. In a sense, it can be a relief to finally discover the cause and receive a diagnosis. However, if you are aware that you have a serious rare condition, you may experience a new set of uncertainties. Your sense of certainty and control over your health can be increased by discussing your NET diagnosis and treatment plan with your healthcare professional.