Neuroendocrine cancer

Neuroendocrine cancers are also called neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). There are 2 key groups - neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs).

You usually start by seeing your GP. They might refer you to a specialist doctor and organise tests. 

There are many different types of neuroendocrine cancer. They are usually named after the part of the body where they develop. 

Carcinoid syndrome is a group of symptoms including flushing of the skin and diarrhoea. It is caused by some NETs that produce large of amounts of hormones.

A  pathologist  reports how abnormal the cancer cells look (differentiation) and how quickly they are growing (grading). Your stage is the size of the cancer and whether it has spread.

Survival (prognosis) depends on several factors. This includes your type of neuroendocrine cancer, where it is in your body, and whether it has spread.

Treatment depends on the type of neuroendocrine cancer you have, where it is, its size and whether it has spread (the stage).

Researchers are looking at improving the diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of people with neuroendocrine cancer.

Practical and emotional support is available to help you cope with neuroendocrine cancer.

We don't know what causes most neuroendocrine cancer. But we know there are some inherited conditions that can increase your risk.