Neuroendocrine cancer, also known as neuroendocrine tumor (NET) or neoplasm, is a chronic condition that affects the neuroendocrine system. The neuroendocrine cells have similar roles as hormone-producing and nerve cells. These develop from tumors that are an overgrowth of cells. The cancer-causing tumors are known as malignant tumors, which can spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer in these cells is rare. However, it can occur anywhere in the body. The most common areas to detect neuroendocrine cancer are- the appendix, lungs, rectum, small intestine, and pancreas.
The following article will provide a basic rundown of the condition and the affected body parts.
What Is Neuroendocrine Cancer?
Neuroendocrine cancer is a condition that develops from a tumor that forms in the neuroendocrine cells. These cancer-causing tumors can be either malignant or benign, depending on the genetic changes that occur.
The DNA change that occurs can cause the “normal cells” to become oncogenes- those that divide uncontrollably. The NET is present in the neuroendocrine system, which is present throughout the body. When showing the growth of malignant tumors, the cells in this system can cause either the release of excess hormone or its complete absence.
The presence of this cancer can be in either of the following parts of the body:
- Lungs- The lungs are one of the most common organs that show the presence of this cancer, or the NETs. The development of NETs in the lungs is nearly 30%, which is seen in the bronchial system. This system is responsible for carrying the air to the lungs. The lung NETs were also known as carcinoid tumors.
- Gastrointestinal tract- Neuroendocrine cancer in the GI tract is the most common. NETs are mainly seen in the small intestine, large intestine, and the appendix. The central role of the GI tract is the digestion of liquid and food, along with processing waste. These were also known as carcinoid tumors.
- Pancreas- Nearly 7% of the neuroendocrine cancer develops in the organ and can disrupt hormone secretion. The pancreas NETs were also known as islet cell tumors.
What Are The Symptoms of Neuroendocrine Cancer?
Despite being rare, the condition can show signs that can be confused with other states. The development of neuroendocrine cancer may begin in other organs apart from the common ones listed above. Thus, it is necessary to know the symptoms.
Moreover, the symptoms may be general signs of the condition due to the various factors about the nature of this cancer. Or signs that may be caused due to the tumor’s location or size. It may even be influenced by the release of the hormones, which the tumors may cause.
The symptoms of NETs can be:
1. General signs of cancer that an individual may experience:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss that cannot be explained
- Fatigue
2. Symptoms based on the location and size of the tumor:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Thickening or lump in a part of the body
- Persistent pain in an area
- Coughing or hoarseness in voice that does not subside
- Jaundice- indicating pancreatic NETs
- Changes in the bladder or bowel habits
- Unusual discharge or bleeding
3. Symptoms related to the release of hormones:
- Facial flushing without sweating
- Diarrhea
- Hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia
- Skin rash
- Ulcer disease
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Niacin or protein deficiency
Classification of NETs
The category of NETs can be either functional or non-functional.
- Functional NETs: These NETs lead to the release of substances, such as hormones, that can lead to the appearance of the symptoms. Especially facial flushing and diarrhea. This is due to the release of serotonin.
- Non-functional NETs: These NETs do not cause the release of substances or do not cause it to a large extent such that symptoms are visible. Nearly 60% of the NETs can be non-functional for an individual, and they may not display signs.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of NETs and, thus, neuroendocrine cancer is through the following ways:
- Blood/urine tests
- Biopsy
- Endoscopy
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
- Biomarker testing for the tumor
- CT Scan
- MRI
- NMR
The most common tests are biopsy, blood or urine tests, and blood tests to check for the presence of biomarkers. And the visualization of tumors with the help of imaging tests such as CT scans, X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds.
The following factors play a role in the diagnosis of neuroendocrine cancer:
- Signs and symptoms that you experience
- The NET suspected
- General health and age
- Results of previous medical tests
Apart from these, a physician may also look into other telltale signs, such as excess secretion of hormones. This can help them understand the tumor’s location and if it is causing the excess hormone secretion.
In addition, as per your situation, the doctor may perform a biopsy to analyze the sample from the suspected tumor. This may include collecting a sample through either bronchoscopy (if it is lung NET) or endoscopy (if it is in the esophagus.) And colonoscopy if the symptoms signal its need.
Most importantly, if the tumor has metastasized – it has spread to other body parts. Then, you may have to conduct additional tests that determine the extent of the cancer.
Treatment Options
The type of the tumor and the location determine the treatment option. Moreover, it also depends on the experience of the symptoms and signs. The following treatment options are available:
- Chemotherapy- This option uses potent drugs that can kill the tumor cells; it can also be given through intravenous or oral routes. The drug therapy may also start if there are chances of the tumor recurring.
- Surgery- Surgery may be employed to eradicate the tumor. Removing the tumor helps a healthy person “fight the cancer” better.
- PRRT or Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy- Combining a drug with radioactive substances in a small amount makes up this therapy. The radiation delivery is directly to the cancer cells, making the treatment even more effective.
- Targeted drug therapy- The specific abnormalities presented in tumor cells allow physicians to redirect the treatment there. This treatment blocks the anomalies, which kills the tumor.
- Medications for controlling the excess hormone- The neuroendocrine tumor can cause the release of excess hormones, which can attract a prescription of drugs that can stop the symptoms related to the symptoms and signs.
- Radiation- Using energy beams such as protons and X-rays can help kill the tumor cells. Some neuroendocrine tumors may respond to radiation, while some may not. In addition, this comes into the picture when the cancer cannot be removed through surgery.
These treatment options enable the person experiencing neuroendocrine cancer to cope with the symptoms. The additional emotional and mental coping support can come from family, caregivers, friends, and healthcare professionals such as nurses and psychologists.
Conclusion
Neuroendocrine cancer is a condition that occurs when there is an overgrowth of cancerous cells. The signs and symptoms of the disease can help you and your physician understand the type of NETs you may be developing. It is essential to consult a professional when you observe abnormalities, as it will quicken the diagnosis and treatment.
Be sure to ask your doctor any questions that you may have; it may sound like-
- Are my symptoms related to neuroendocrine cancer?
- Can my symptoms improve with time?
Read Also:
