Knowledge Hub
Knowledge Hub
Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs) is an umbrella name for a number of different types of tumours, which can arise in different areas of the body. It can be…
There are a number of different types of NETs and they all have a slightly different way of presenting themselves, both in terms of symptoms and how they look under a microscope (histology).
The naming of NET tumours is derived from the anatomical area from which they are found in the body and some are named based on the predominant hormone that they secrete.
Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumours (GI NET) are a rare type of cancer that can start in different parts of your digestive system, called the GI system. The GI system includes the stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum.
Pancreatic NETs
PNETs are types of tumours that can be functioning (actively secreting hormones) or Non-functioning (no appreciable hormone production). These are further subdivided into types that indicate the hormones they produce. Unfortunately the non functioning pancreatic NETs secrete certain hormones and peptides like other NETs but the release of these chemicals does not cause an identifiable syndrome or collection of symptoms. This can make diagnosis difficult and explains why so many cases are picked up incidentally.
The adrenal glands are hormone producing organs that sit on top of the kidneys. The outer part is called the cortex, responsible for producing glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids – (cortisol and aldosterone) as well as small amounts of male and female sex hormones.
Adrenocorticol Carcinoma (ACC) is a cancer that starts in the cortex – the outer layer of the adrenal gland and affect cortisone and aldosterone production.
The inner part of the adrenal gland is called the medulla – responsible for producing adrenaline and noradrenaline. These are the fight or flight hormones, which are released when the sympathetic nervous system recognises physical or emotional stress.
Neuroendocrine cells are present throughout the lungs or respiratory tract. Lung Neuroendocine cancers account for up to 20% of all lung cancers. They are often called Carcinoid tumours of the lung.
Phaeochromocytomas are tumours of the adrenal glands (located on top of the kidneys) and can actively secrete noradrenaline and adrenaline causing symptoms such as high blood pressure, palpitations, sweating, nervousness, headaches, loss of weight.
Paragangliomas arise along the sympathetic chain. Present as painless masses but some secrete adrenaline and noradrenaline. 1-3% can metastasise. Up to 30% of paragangliomas are inherited.
Merkel cell carcinoma, or primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of skin occur are tumours that appear as firm, painless reddish coloured nodules particularly on sun exposed areas of skin. They can grow rapidly and can metastasise to other organs.
Multiple endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN1) is a genetic condition which most often affects, (but not limited to) the parathyroids, pituitary, pancreas and thymus glands. Often tumours can also arise in the gastrointestinal tract. If you have had a family member who has a NET or passed away from an 'uncommon cancer' then it is worth talking to your health care provider about your family history. This can be diagnosed simply by having a genetic blood test. It is important to be diagnosed early to ensure tumours are picked up as soon as they arise. International guidelines suggest testing children of an affected parent from 5 years of age.
The appendix is a small tube found near the junction where the large and small bowel meet in the lower right abdomen. It has no clearly identified function in humans.
Appendiceal Neuroendocrine Cancers, less than 1cm, completely removed by surgery, often do not need any further treatment or follow up – they are essentially cured. However, if the cancer is larger, shows evidence of spread, is found at the base of the appendix or the appendix has ‘burst’, you may need further follow up and/or treatment.
For Appendiceal NETs with lower grade histology this may require further surgery, whereas for Appendiceal NECs with higher grading this may involve surgery with or without chemotherapy.
Different NETs affect people in different ways in terms of how the tumour grows, the symptoms produced, whether or not they spread and how they spread. However, all NETs share some similar characteristics.
The histology (what the tumours look like under a microscope) is very important in order to classify the cancer into a type, and therefore allow the medical team to be able to plan appropriate treatment. Although NETs share similar characteristics, the diagnosis and the way the cancer may behave could be different.
The most important aspect of NET patient care is that it is tailored to suit the individual, and that this care is provided by a specialist in the field of NETs. Quality of life is paramount for the patient, and so teamwork is essential to provide a solid plan of treatment and follow-up.
There has been much research work done by specialist healthcare professionals and progress has been made in terms of understanding these tumours. It is important to ensure that people with NETs are seen by specialists in order to access all the knowledge available.
A NET cancer patient should ideally be referred to a centre where there is a multidisciplinary team that works together to ensure the best outcomes for each patient. This team would normally include gastroenterologists, surgeons, oncologists, endocrinologists, radiologists, nuclear medicine specialists, histopathologists and clinical nurse specialists.
If you have any questions, please email our Information and Support Manager: support@neuroendocrinecancer.org.nz
Could it be NETs? – Free symptom self-check
A free, anonymous, NZ-specific 3-minute symptom check. Get a printable summary to take to your GP.
Patient Guide
This booklet has been developed to provide information about neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) for patients and their families.
Types of scans for NET Cancers
There are various types of scans that may or may not be suitable for your type of NETs. Here is a summary of some scans you might encounter.
Grades of Neuroendocrine (NET) Cancers
What G1, G2 and G3 mean for a neuroendocrine cancer diagnosis – plain-language explanation of grade, Ki-67, and how they shape treatment options.