Neuroendocrine cancer is a type of cancer that begins in neuroendocrine cells. These cells have traits similar to nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) can develop in various parts of the body, including the lungs, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract.
This guide will help you understand what neuroendocrine cancer is, its symptoms, causes, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available.
What Is Neuroendocrine Cancer?
Neuroendocrine cancer involves tumors that start in neuroendocrine cells, which are found throughout your body. These tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). NETs can grow slowly or rapidly, depending on their type and location.
Types of Neuroendocrine Tumors:
- Carcinoid Tumors: Often found in the lungs or gastrointestinal tract.
- Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): Develop in the pancreas.
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Starts in the thyroid gland.
- Pheochromocytomas: Begin in the adrenal glands.
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A rare skin cancer that starts in the neuroendocrine cells in the skin.
What Are the Symptoms of Neuroendocrine Cancer?
Symptoms of neuroendocrine cancer vary depending on the tumor’s location and whether it produces hormones. Here are some common symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain: A feeling of discomfort or pain in the stomach area.
- Flushing of the Skin: Redness and warmth, often in the face and neck.
- Diarrhea: Frequent, loose stools.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
- Wheezing or Shortness of Breath: Trouble breathing or a high-pitched breathing sound.
- Changes in Blood Sugar Levels: Often seen in pancreatic NETs.
Some neuroendocrine tumors can release hormones into the bloodstream, causing a condition called carcinoid syndrome. Symptoms of carcinoid syndrome include skin flushing, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
What Causes Neuroendocrine Cancer?
The exact cause of neuroendocrine cancer is not well understood, but certain factors can increase the risk:
- Family History: Having family members with neuroendocrine tumors can increase risk.
- Genetic Conditions: Certain inherited conditions, such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) and Von Hippel-Lindau disease, can increase risk.
- Age: NETs are more common in older adults.
- Gender: Some types of NETs are more common in men, while others are more common in women.
- Other Health Conditions: Diseases like diabetes or other endocrine disorders can increase risk.
How Is Neuroendocrine Cancer Diagnosed?
Doctors use several methods to diagnose neuroendocrine cancer:
- Blood and Urine Tests: These can check for high levels of hormones or other substances produced by the tumors.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans help locate the tumor and see if it has spread.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken to check for cancer cells.
- Endoscopy: A camera is used to look inside the body for tumors.
Early diagnosis can help with better management and treatment of the disease.
What Are the Treatments for Neuroendocrine Cancer?
Treatment for neuroendocrine cancer depends on the type, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. Here are common treatment options:
- Surgery: Removing the tumor and some surrounding tissue. Surgery is often the first option if the tumor hasn’t spread.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to destroy cancer cells. This is often used if the cancer has spread.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs target specific proteins or genes to help stop cancer growth.
- Hormone Therapy: Medications can control symptoms by blocking the hormones the tumor produces.
- Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT): A type of targeted radiation therapy that attaches radioactive substances to proteins that target cancer cells.
What Is the Prognosis for Neuroendocrine Cancer?
The prognosis for neuroendocrine cancer varies based on the tumor’s type, location, stage, and how well it responds to treatment. Some NETs grow slowly and can be managed for many years, while others may progress more quickly.
Living with Neuroendocrine Cancer:
Living with neuroendocrine cancer can be challenging, but support and care are available:
- Follow-up Care: Regular check-ups and monitoring are important for managing the disease.
- Support Groups: Joining groups can help you connect with others and share experiences.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Eating well and staying active can improve your overall well-being.
- Emotional Support: Counseling or therapy can help manage stress and emotions.
