Conditions | Neuroendocrine Tumours
Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs)
Neuroendocrine tumours, or NETs, are relatively rare growths that start in a person’s neuroendocrine cells. Neuroendocrine cells are found throughout the body and their role is to release hormones into the blood in response to signals from the nervous system. NETs often grow slowly over time and be both benign (non-cancerous) or cancerous (malignant).
NETs can develop in various organs, including the lungs, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, and even in the liver or ovaries. The most common location for NETs are in the GI tract – specifically the small bowel, rectum, and appendix.
The symptoms of NETs vary depending on their location, size, and whether it is producing hormones. Diagnosis often involves things like imaging, biopsy, blood or urine tests. Your surgeon will talk to you about what treatment(s) are recommended for you.
