Neuroendocrine Tumour (NET)
NETs are a complex group of tumours that develop predominantly in the digestive or respiratory tracts, but can occur in other areas of the body. These tumours arise from neuroendcrine cells. The main function of neuroendocrine cells are to create, store and secrete a variety of proteins called peptides and hormones for normal body functions. NETs develop when these neuroendocrine cells undergo changes, causing them to divide uncontrollably and grow into a mass or what is also known as a tumour.
For further information on Neuroendocrine Tumours, Prof Samra recommends visiting the Neuroendocrine Australia website.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of Pancreatic NETs include:
- Epigastric or back pain
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Diarrhoea
- Low blood sugar
- Diabetes
- Rash
Diagnosis
It is difficult to detect a NET for a number of reasons;
- They are often very small
- They can occur almost anywhere in the body
- Symptoms can vary widely and some patients have no symptoms at all.
Diagnostic tests include:
- Blood test, specifically; Full blood count (FBC), Chromogranin A (CgA)
- Urine test
- Radiological imaging and Nuclear Imaging
- Biopsy of the NET
Treatment
The care of NETs can be overwhelming and complex. Rest assured as part of your health care team we will do our best to support you. Your care may be managed by a team called a multidisciplinary team which can include a number of specialists such as;
- Oncologist
- Radiologist
- Gastroenterologist
- Endocrinologist
- Nurse Specialist
- Pain team
- Dietitian
Prof Samra is part of the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Neuroendocrine Tumour Multidisciplinary Team located at Royal North Shore Hospital, which the MDT meet on a fortnightly basis to discuss patient management of care and what the best possible care and treatment should be provided.
The surgical techniques include:
- Robotic enucleation of NET from the Pancreas (Uncinate Process Insulinoma)
