In short
Neuroendocrine tumors (NENs) are a rare group of cancers that can grow slowly or quickly [3]. They often start in the pancreas or other parts of the digestive tract [4]. Treatment depends on whether the tumor is localized or has spread, and it may include surgery or special radiation therapy [3].
The details
Neuroendocrine tumors are divided into well-differentiated types, which grow slowly, and poorly differentiated types, which grow fast [3].
Surgery is the main cure for tumors that have not spread to other parts of the body [3].
For advanced disease, doctors may use a treatment called peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) [4]. This uses a radioactive drug to target the tumor cells.
A study in Japan showed that PRRT helped control the disease for about 21 months on average [4]. It also improved hormone-related symptoms in many patients [4].
Patients with tumors in the pancreas or hindgut (the lower part of the large intestine) responded well to this therapy [4].
Because these tumors are rare, doctors recommend keeping detailed records and using a team of specialists to plan care [3].
What to know
The research on PRRT comes from a study in Japan, so results may vary for other groups of people [4]. Treatment choices must consider many factors, such as the tumor type and the patient's health [3]. Always talk to your medical team about what is best for your specific situation.