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Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

Tumors arising from the endocrine cells of the pancreas.

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 Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors?

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors originating from pancreatic islet cells. They are classified as functional or non-functional and account for 1-2% of all pancreatic tumors.

Functional tumors cause clinical syndromes by secreting hormones: insulinoma (hypoglycemia), gastrinoma (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome), glucagonoma, VIPoma (Verner-Morrison), and somatostatinoma. Non-functional tumors are often detected by mass effect.

Diagnosis uses imaging (CT, MRI, somatostatin receptor scintigraphy), biochemical markers, and biopsy. Treatment includes surgical resection, somatostatin analogs, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, and targeted therapies.

Symptoms

Hypoglycemic episodes (insulinoma)
Recurrent peptic ulcers (gastrinoma)
Skin rash (glucagonoma)
Watery diarrhea (VIPoma)
Abdominal pain
Weight loss
Jaundice (large mass)

Risk Factors

MEN-1 syndrome
Von Hippel-Lindau disease
Neurofibromatosis type 1
Tuberous sclerosis
Family history
Previous radiotherapy
Genetic mutations

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Unexplained hypoglycemia
  • Refractory peptic ulcer
  • Persistent diarrhea and dehydration
  • Skin changes
  • Family history of MEN-1

Treatment Methods

01
Hormonal evaluation
02
CT, MRI, and DOTATATE PET-CT
03
Endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy
04
Surgical resection (enucleation, partial pancreatectomy)
05
Somatostatin analogs
06
Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy
07
Targeted therapies (everolimus, sunitinib)

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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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.