What are Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs)

They develop from cells of the neuroendocrine system. These are found in organs such as the stomach, bowel and lungs.

NETs are more common in people aged over 60. They are sometimes called carcinoid tumours.

Although uncommon, there are many types of neuroendocrine tumors, but most are classified as one of two main types:

• Carcinoid tumors - NETs that most commonly arise in the digestive tract, lungs, appendix or thymus. They can also grow in the lymph nodes, brain, bone, gonads (ovaries and testes) or skin.
• Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (also called islet cell tumors) - NETs that typically arise in the pancreas, although they can occur outside the pancreas

Symptoms depend on where in the body the NET is.

They can include:

• tummy pain
• changes in bowel function
• flushing of the skin
• shortness of breath
• loss of appetite
• weight loss.

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