- Multiple endocrine neoplasia type1
- Neurofibromatosis type1
- Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome
- How long have you may have been feeling this way?
- Do you feel any pain?
- Any loss of appetite?
- Are you tired more often?
- Also, your medical record will be checked.
- A family medical history will be examined for any illness that runs in the family
- Then you will have to undergo some tests such as blood and urine test.
- You will perform some scans like the computerized tomography scan, MRI, etc.
- Biopsy also will be carried out.
- Surgery
- Hormone Therapy
- Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy can be employed.
- Embolization Therapy
- Targeted Therapy
Symptoms
Neuroendocrine tumors may not show symptoms at first but symptoms may vary depending on the location and type.
General symptoms include:
- Always feeling tired
- Losing weight
- Pain
- Growing lump under the skin
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Hoarse voice
- Vomiting
- Pain
- Rash
Symptoms due to pancreatic tumors
- Diarrhea
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- A fast heartbeat
- Increase hunger and thirst sensation
- Weakness
- Rash
- Stomach pain.
Symptoms due to carcinoid tumors
- Diarrhea
- Red itchy skin on the face and neck
- Stomach pain
- Pain in chest
- Troubled breathing
- Easily fatigued
Causes
Since neuroendocrine tumors are still rare, the exact cause is still unknown, although, recent research has postulated that neuroendocrine tumor begins when the cells have a mutation in their DNA that causes the cells to multiply rapidly, hence, forming a tumor. This growth could be very slow or aggressive.
FAQ
- What kind of food should a person with a neuroendocrine tumor eat?
Living with neuroendocrine tumors can be quite hard, so eating a healthy diet is meal won’t be out of place. Eat meals rich in fish, eggs, cheese, and beans. Avoid fatty foods, sugary drinks, and sweets.
- What should I expect with neuroendocrine tumors?
Your expectations most times should be based on the kind of tumor you have, the rate at which it is spreading, and if it is cancerous. With the right medications and treatments, the tumor will be shrink.
- Is neuroendocrine tumor survivable?
The survival rate of a neuroendocrine tumor depends on several factors such as the type, location of the tumor, and if the tumor can be removed surgically.
- What are the functional neuroendocrine tumors?
Functional neuroendocrine tumors is another form of classifying neuroendocrine tumor base on the release of hormones by the tumors. Most common with carcinoid tumors, as serotonin is released which can cause diarrhea and facial flushing.
- What are non-functional neuroendocrine tumors?
Non-functional neuroendocrine tumors release little or no hormone, hence remarkable effects are not felt and symptoms may not be seen over a long period. Most neuroendocrine tumors are in this category.