Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors

Introduction

Tumors are often believed to be cancerous by most individuals. However, the truth is that tumors can be cancerous or non-cancerous. They may pertain to a specific body area and remain in a particular size for a stipulated time. Irrespective of the size and extent, it is important to understand the type and nature of the tumor for better diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the site of tumor origin, there are various types of tumors found in the human body.

What Is a Tumor?

A solid mass formed when abnormal cells clump together, affecting the bones, skin, and organs, is called a tumor. Tumors can be benign or malignant. Umors can be present in any part of the body. Tumors are broadly classified into three types:

• Cancerous: These types of tumors are capable of spreading to nearby organs. This process of spreading is called metastasis. These tumors may recur with treatment and can be life-threatening at times.

• Noncancerous: These types of tumors are benign and rarely life-threatening. It is usually localized and does not spread out. They usually do not require any form of treatment and regress on their own.

• Precancerous: These tumors have the potential to turn cancerous if left untreated. Hence, they have to be carefully diagnosed and treated.

What Are Neuroendocrine Tumors?

The tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells are called neuroendocrine tumors. These cells have traits that closely resemble nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. Neuroendocrine tumors are usually rare and can occur in any body part. Most commonly, they are seen in the lungs, pancreas, small intestine, and rectum.

What Are the Types of Neuroendocrine Tumors?

There are various types of neuroendocrine tumors. Some tend to grow slowly, while some have rapid growth. Some of these tumors produce excess hormones. The common symptoms associated with these types of tumors are:

• Pain as the tumor grows.

• Feeling a lump under the skin.

• Fatigue or tiredness.

• Losing weight.

• Skin flushing.

• Diarrhea.

• Frequent urination.

• Increased thirst.

• Dizziness.

• Skin rash.

What Are the Causes of Neuroendocrine Tumors?

The exact cause of these tumors is not known. The cancers usually begin in the neuroendocrine cells and have similar traits to nerve cells. These cells are found throughout the body. The tumors occur when the endocrine cells cause changes in the DNA mutation. The DNA (deoxy nucleic acid) usually contains instructions required for a cell. The changes may cause the cell to multiply rapidly and form a tumor.

What Are Gastrointestinal Tumors?

A type of tumor that originates in the digestive system is called the gastrointestinal tumor. It is usually found in the stomach and intestine. Small tumors may have no symptoms and may grow slowly. Some large tumors may cause the following symptoms as they keep growing:

• Abdominal pain.

• Fatigue.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Cramping pain in the abdomen.

• Loss of appetite.

• Dark-colored stools.

Gastrointestinal tumors can occur at any age, but they are most common in adults and are rare in children.

What Is a Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumor?

These tumors are known to occur in the gastrointestinal tract and are a type of neuroendocrine tumor. They can be seen developing anywhere between the esophagus and anus. They are commonly seen in the small intestine or the tissues lining the abdominal wall. Another common location is the rectum or the last section of the large intestine. There are various types of neuroendocrine gastrointestinal tumors. The tumors are distinguished with the help of the following factors:

• Frequency.

• Hormonal potential.

• Appearance of the tumor.

• Metastasis or behavior of the tumor.

The common cause of tumor occurrence is the release of hormones like serotonin and gastrin. A few symptoms may also occur from the developing tumors as they turn cancerous. When excess serotonin is released by the tumors, the liver usually processes the extra amounts without impacting the body. But if the disease spreads to the liver, the organs may find it difficult to cope. The high serotonin levels may result in a condition called carcinoid syndrome. They are usually found in the small intestine and appendix. The symptoms of the syndrome include:

• Diarrhea.

• Flushing.

• Wheezing.

How Is Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumor Diagnosed?

The tumor is diagnosed in multiple ways:

• By the effect of hormone release.

• By experiencing rapid tumor growth.

• Accidental finding of the tumor.

Because these tumors are known to grow slowly, the symptoms may not appear right away. Even when the symptoms appear, they tend to overlap. So diagnosing this condition can be very challenging. Usually, people are diagnosed between the ages of 55 and 65. Other diagnostic aids used are:

• CT (computed tomography) scan.

• Endoscopy.

• Needle biopsy to analyze tumor cells and identify if they are well differentiated.

• Urine tests measure serotonin.

How Is a Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumor Treated?

Based on the site and size of the tumor, each individual is given personalized care to get rid of the tumor. The doctor may propose a plan based on the following factors:

• Size and growth of the tumor.

• If the tumor is releasing hormones.

• If the tumor has spread extensively.

• If the liver is involved in the tumor growth.

Surgery plays a crucial role in the removal of these tumors. Even if removal of the entire tumor is not possible, it is essential to get rid of the primary tumor. Removing the primary tumor can prevent the tumor from blocking the gastrointestinal tract. It decreases the risk of local complications. It reduces the number of local hormones released. It also prevents further metastasis. Another procedure called debulking is done to reduce the size of the tumor. Besides, certain medications like somatostatin analogs are administered. They help to control cancer growth and relieve the symptoms accompanying hormonal release.

Conclusion

Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors are usually found in the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors can obstruct gastrointestinal movement. They are usually very challenging to identify as they mimic the symptoms of other tumors. Affected individuals exhibit symptoms of excessive hormone production and abdominal pain. Various modes of diagnosis and treatment are available to treat the condition. Early diagnosis can aid with prompt treatment.