Physicians and surgeons at the CADC have expertise in endocrine tumors which develop in many digestive organs, including the stomach, duodenum, small intestine, appendix, large intestine, rectum, liver, and pancreas, as well as other areas in the abdomen.
The endocrine system includes specialized glands that make and release hormones, or chemical messengers, directly into the bloodstream. Hormones regulate a wide range of body functions, such as activities of entire organs; growth and development; reproduction; sexual characteristics; usage and storage of energy; and levels of fluid, salt, and sugar in the blood.
A neuroendocrine tumor is an abnormal growth that arises from the glands that produce these hormones. The tumor itself can also produce hormones on its own in high amounts and cause serious illness. Some neuroendocrine tumors impair quality of life by triggering uncomfortable symptoms, while others have the potential to be life-threatening.
Types of Neuroendocrine Tumors
There are different types of neuroendocrine tumors. Some produce hormones, while others do not. Neuroendocrine tumors that grow without producing hormones are called "non-functioning tumors." Tumors that secrete hormones into the bloodstream are called "functional tumors." Neuroendocrine tumors develop in many digestive organs, including the pancreas, liver, stomach, small intestine, appendix, large intestine, and rectum, as well as other areas in the abdomen. Two notable types include:
Physicians in the Center for Advanced Digestive Care at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center are highly skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors in many different regions of the body. They use the latest diagnostic tests and treatments to treat these tumors and restore quality of life to patients. When diagnosed and treated appropriately, the prognosis for most patients with neuroendocrine tumors is very good.