[Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors: pleomorphic and often ignored]

Rev Med Suisse. 2012 Sep 5;8(352):1658-63.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Although generally considered as rare, incidence of gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors (GI-NETs) is increasing. The general practitioner has thus to be familiar with the vast array of clinical presentations and the growing family of diagnostic tools that can be used. Symptoms can be related to their hormonal production, their local extent or a bleeding complication. The prognosis depends on the grade of tumor, its local extent at diagnosis and its localization. The diagnosis relies on radiologic, endoscopic and nuclear medicine strategies. In case of typical symptoms, a hormonal secretion should be sought. Treatment options are extensive and should be discussed in an interdisciplinary manner.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Endoscopy, Digestive System
  • Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors / diagnosis*
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors / therapy*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Biomarkers, Tumor