Neuroendocrine tumors

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Neuroendocrine tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a type of tumor that originates from the neuroendocrine system. The pronunciation of the term is /ˌnʊəroʊɪnˈdɒkrɪn ˈtjuːmər/. The etymology of the term comes from the Greek words "neuron" meaning nerve, "endo" meaning within, and "krinein" meaning to separate or secrete, referring to the tumor's origin and behavior.

NETs are a diverse group of benign or malignant tumors that arise from the body's neuroendocrine cells, which are found throughout the body in organs such as the lungs, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract. These cells have traits of both nerve cells and hormone-producing cells, and they release hormones into the blood in response to signals from the nervous system.

Classification

NETs are classified based on the type of neuroendocrine cell they originate from, their location in the body, and their behavior (whether they are benign or malignant). The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies NETs into three grades based on their rate of growth and the extent to which they have spread.

Symptoms

The symptoms of NETs vary widely depending on the location of the tumor and the type of hormone it produces. Common symptoms include flushing, diarrhea, abdominal pain, wheezing, and heart palpitations. Some NETs, known as "functional" tumors, produce excess hormones that can lead to specific syndromes, such as Carcinoid syndrome or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of NETs typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the grade of the tumor.

Treatment

Treatment options for NETs depend on the type and location of the tumor, its grade, and the patient's overall health. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

See also

References


External links

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