Neuroendocrine Tumours: A Closer Look at Easily Missed Signs

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are a rare type of tumours that originate in the neuroendocrine cells (hormone-producing cells) that are spread throughout the body. That said, NETs most commonly develop in the lungs, pancreas, or digestive tract, often presenting with symptoms similar to other less serious conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and even menopause, making it challenging to diagnose them at an early stage. While NETs can be both benign and malignant, the latter requires immediate medical intervention as they can progress to cancer, if not treated in time. This delay in diagnosis necessitates increasing awareness on NETs. The blog will discuss neuroendocrine tumours and their early signs that can be easily missed.

What are Neuroendocrine Tumours? 

Neuroendocrine Tumour is an umbrella term for rare tumours that originate from the neuroendocrine cells. Neuroendocrine cells play a crucial role in managing various bodily functions, including growth, reproduction, and metabolism. These cells are found throughout the body, but tumours that develop from them are most commonly seen in specific areas such as pancreas, stomach, lungs, and thyroid. 

NETs usually grow slowly and can be hard to spot early on as their symptoms aren't very specific. These can behave and look quite different from one another.

There are two main categories of NETs: Functioning and non-functioning tumours. Functioning NETs release hormones that cause specific hormone-related symptoms. Non-functioning NETs, on the other hand, do not release hormones and might not cause any noticeable problems until they've progressed to an advanced stage. 

What are the Types of Neuroendocrine Tumours?

There are several types of neuroendocrine tumours based on location.

• GI-NETs: Gastrointestinal-Neuroendocrine tumours are the most common of all NETs. These start in the intestines, rectum, or appendix. Stomach pain and diarrhoea are the major symptoms of Gastrointestinal-Neuroendocrine tumours.
• Lung NETs: Lung NETs start in the lungs or the bronchi (tubes that connect the windpipe and the lungs). Common symptoms associated with this type of NETs include cough, chest pain, and wheezing.
• Pancreatic NETs: Pancreatic NETs as the name suggests, start in the pancreas, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite to name a few.

Why are NET’s Often Misdiagnosed?

NETs often present with symptoms that are either too common and mild to be alarming, or resemble those of more common conditions. Examples of such symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue.

Neuroendocrine tumours are also uncommon, which means most doctors have limited experience in diagnosing this type of cancer.

Apart from that, neuroendocrine tumours are slow growing in nature. They may not cause any symptoms until they are at an advanced stage, often leading to a delay in diagnosis. 

All these reasons contribute to misdiagnosis or delay in the diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumours. 

What are the Symptoms of Neuroendocrine Tumours?

Here are some signs to watch out for and what they could instead be mistaken for:

• Diarrhoea: When one is experiencing ongoing diarrhoea without a clear cause, it could be a sign of NETs affecting the digestive system.

• Stomach Pain: Unexplained stomach pain or cramping might lead doctors to think a person has something like irritable bowel syndrome when it could be a NET.
• Flushing: The face and neck may suddenly turn red or feel warm. This can happen with certain types of NETs, especially when they release hormones like serotonin.
• Breathing Problems: Some people with NETs, particularly in the lungs, might experience wheezing or shortness of breath. These symptoms can be mistaken for asthma or bronchitis.
• Weight Changes: If a person is gaining or losing weight without trying, it could be due to hormone imbalances caused by NETs. However, many other health issues can also cause weight changes.
• Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Some pancreatic NETs can cause significant changes in blood sugar levels, which may be confused with diabetes.
• Heart Issues: Hormone-producing NETs can sometimes cause a rapid heartbeat or palpitations, which may be mistaken for heart problems.

Given that these symptoms are similar to many common and less serious conditions, NETs can go undiagnosed/misdiagnosed for a long time. It's important to be aware of these signs so that NETs can be diagnosed and treated early.

When to See a Doctor?

If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms without any clear cause, and they tend to worsen over time, then you should consult a doctor. Aside from that, getting checked by a doctor is even more crucial if you have a family history of NETs.

Conclusion

Neuroendocrine tumours can be easily missed due to their subtle, non-specific symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for optimal treatment. If you or a loved one has questions or doubts about possible signs of neuroendocrine tumours, Max Hospitals is here to help. Our doctors can provide clear answers. They can analyse the symptoms, do a proper diagnosis and provide neuroendocrine tumour treatment if required.