Knowledge Hub
Knowledge Hub
Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) is the umbrella term for a group of unusual, often slow-growing cancers.
A neuroendocrine tumour (NET) begins in the specialized cells of the body’s neuroendocrine system. These cells have traits of both hormone-producing endocrine cells and nerve cells. They are found throughout the body’s organs and help control many of the body’s functions. Hormones are chemical substances that are carried through the bloodstream to have a specific effect on the activity of other organs or cells in the body. Most NETs take years to develop and grow slowly. However, some NETs can be fast-growing.
Neuro-endocrine = messenger cells of the body
Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) can start almost anywhere in the body, but most commonly found in the digestive system, lungs, pancreas and reproductive organs. These tumours develop from secretory cells found throughout the body and are grouped by where the tumour started in the body.
The most common types of NETs are named with their primary site:
NETs can also begin in other organs and sometimes, NETs may develop in or on the adrenal glands. These rare types of NETs are called pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.
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.