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Appendix Neuroendocrine Tumor

A rare tumor arising from the enterochromaffin cells of the appendix, usually detected during appendectomy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Appendix Neuroendocrine Tumor?

Appendix neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are mostly well-differentiated, slow-growing tumors arising from enterochromaffin cells in the appendix wall.

Among gastrointestinal NETs, the appendix is one of the most common sites. Most patients are diagnosed by the pathology report after an appendectomy performed for acute appendicitis (incidental).

Tumor size, mesoappendix invasion, lymphovascular invasion, and histologic grade are the main parameters guiding the decision for additional surgery (right hemicolectomy).

Symptoms

Mostly silent; detected during routine appendectomy
Appendicitis-like abdominal pain
Rare: carcinoid syndrome (flushing, diarrhea)
Weight loss (in advanced disease)
Right lower quadrant mass
Change in bowel habits
Hepatomegaly with liver metastasis

Risk Factors

Young adult age (20-40)
Female sex (slightly more frequent)
Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes
Family history of NET
Chronic inflammatory processes
Genetic predisposition
Unpredictable incidental diagnosis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • NET diagnosis on pathology after appendectomy
  • Flushing, diarrhea and recurrent attacks
  • Long-standing abdominal pain and weight loss
  • Detection of an appendix mass on imaging
  • New symptoms after a previous appendectomy

Treatment Methods

01
≤1 cm, negative base, low grade: appendectomy alone is sufficient
02
1-2 cm, mesoappendix invasion or base involvement: consider right hemicolectomy
03
>2 cm or high grade: right hemicolectomy + lymphadenectomy
04
Staging with CT/MRI, 68Ga-DOTA-NET PET
05
Somatostatin analogues in carcinoid syndrome
06
Multidisciplinary oncologic follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.