Neuroendocrine tumours

The neuroendocrine system consists of nerve and gland cells. It produces hormones and releases them into the bloodstream.

NETs are tumours (abnormal growths) that develop in the cells of the neuroendocrine system.

NETs can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) and often – but not always – grow slowly. There are a number of different types of NET, depending on the specific cells affected.


NETs are tumours (abnormal growths) that develop in the cells of the neuroendocrine system.

NETs can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) and often – but not always – grow slowly. There are a number of different types of NET, depending on the specific cells affected.


NETs can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) and often – but not always – grow slowly. There are a number of different types of NET, depending on the specific cells affected.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a neuroendocrine tumour can vary depending on where it is and what hormones it produces.

For example, a tumour in the digestive system may cause diarrhoea, constipation or tummy pains. A tumour in the lung may cause wheezing or a persistent cough.

Some tumours (functioning tumours) may cause abnormally large amounts of hormones to be released into the bloodstream.

This can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, flushing, cramps, wheezing, low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia), changes in blood pressure and heart problems.