Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs)

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are an unusual and challenging disease that requires treatment by a NET specialist. At London Medical, we understand that no one case is the same and that every patient’s journey must reflect their individual needs. Your care will be led by a neuroendocrine specialist who will head up a multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to your unique case. If you require investigation for NETs or you want access to the latest cutting-edge treatments, our experts have experience diagnosing and treating NETs to ensure that you’ll have the best possible outcomes.

A neuroendocrine tumour (NET) begins in hormone-producing cells that are part of the endocrine system. The endocrine system is a complex system composed of glands that secrete hormones (chemical messengers). These hormones carry instructions and information to other parts of the body to coordinate and influence a range of bodily functions, from metabolism and growth to reproduction. 

Neuroendocrine cells are specialised cells that link your endocrine system to your nervous system. They are found throughout the body, and when a tumour or group of tumours begins in these cells, it is called a neuroendocrine tumour (NET). Tumours can form in many different parts of the body, most commonly the lungs, pancreas or digestive system.

NETs are classified by where they are first found. NETs can be found in the following places:

• lungs
• pancreas
• small intestines
• large intestines
• rectum
• stomach
• oesophagus
• appendix
• skin
• prostate
• uterus
• adrenal, parathyroid and pituitary glands. 

What are the symptoms of neuroendocrine tumours?

Symptoms of neuroendocrine tumours depend on where the tumour is located. Symptoms might also arise as a result of hormones produced by the tumour. Tumours that secrete hormones are called functional tumours, whereas those that do not release hormones are non-functional tumours. 

Often a patient will not experience any signs or symptoms at first. Depending on the location and type of the NET, an individual might experience:

• abdominal pain
• flushing
• wheezing
• bloating
• heart palpitations
• skin rash
• weakness
• heartburn
• unexplained weight changes

Because primary care doctors can confuse many of these symptoms as a sign of other, more common conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or asthma, patients are often misdiagnosed or experience a delay in being referred to a specialist. 

Endocrinologists have a higher level of experience and ongoing training that cannot be matched by a general practitioner. The signs and symptoms of NETs will be recognised by an endocrinologist who will ensure that you are referred to London Medical’s NET specialist for thorough testing.