Neuroendocrine Tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors are cancers that begin in specialized cells called neuroendocrine cells. Neuroendocrine cells have traits similar to those of nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. Neuroendocrine tumors are rare and can occur anywhere in the body, although most occur in the lungs, appendix, small intestine, rectum, and pancreas.

There are a variety of types of neuroendocrine tumors with different characteristics including:

• Some grow slowly while others grow very quickly
• Tumors that produce excess hormones are called functional neuroendocrine tumors and tend to cause symptoms depending on the location
• Nonfunctional neuroendocrine tumors don't release hormones or don't release enough to cause symptoms

Diagnosis and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors depend on the type of tumor, its location, whether it produces excess hormones, how aggressive it is, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment options

Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute offers treatment options for the full spectrum of neuroendocrine tumors. Treatments fall into two categories:

• Local treatments: These options target one location or one tumor that is causing symptoms. Surgery is typically the most useful option when a tumor is in one location, however, surgery may also be appropriate in other circumstances. Saint Luke's interventional radiologists have several technologies available to control the growth of individual tumors, particularly in the liver.
• Systemic treatments: This treatment type targets the cancer wherever it is in the body, even after it has spread. Systemic options include hormone therapy, targeted therapies, and, occasionally, chemotherapy.

Targeted radiation therapy

The newest option is a systemic radiation called peptide receptor radionuclide therapy. Most neuroendocrine tumors have specific hormone receptors. This treatment uses a specific hormone to direct the radiation to the cancer’s location and bind to it, sparing other tissues from radiation exposure.

Saint Luke’s cancer experts offer LUTATHERA®, the first FDA-approved peptide receptor radionuclide therapy for neuroendocrine tumors. It specifically targets and enters the cells that have somatostatin receptors, releasing energy in the form of radiation that damages them and nearby cells.

For an appointment or to get a second opinion, call Saint Luke’s Cancer Specialists at 816-932-3300.