neuroendocrine tumor
Malignancy arising from cells that release hormones into the bloodstream in response to neuronal signals.
Full Definition
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms that arise from neuroendocrine cells throughout the body, most commonly in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and lungs. These tumors retain the ability to produce and secrete various hormones and bioactive substances, which can lead to distinctive clinical syndromes such as carcinoid syndrome or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. NETs are classified based on their grade, stage, and functional status, with treatment approaches varying from surgical resection to targeted therapy and peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT).
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; can be abbreviated as NET after first mention.
In Context
- "The patient was diagnosed with a grade 2 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor." — Pathology report
- "Octreotide scintigraphy revealed multiple neuroendocrine tumor metastases." — Nuclear medicine report