Neuroendocrine tumors can be difficult to diagnose because of the variety of symptoms they present.
Possible Symptoms
- Tumors that originate in the pancreas can cause abdominal pain, ulcers, diabetes, skin rashes, diarrhea and changes in weight.
- Those that originate in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract (carcinoids) may cause flushing, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cough wheezing and in advanced cases, damage to the heart.
Diagnostic Testing
- If symptoms suggest a neuroendocrine tumor, blood and urine test should be performed to measure hormone levels. If elevated, imaging techniques, including PET/CT scans, endoscopies and octreoscans should be used to locate tumors and see if the cancer has spread, followed by a biopsy of the tumor.
If you would like to refer a patient
To make an appointment or refer a patient, please call 1-877-936-8422.
Please have the following available:
- Diagnosis or symptoms
- Previous testing, diagnostic scans, blood work and/or surgeries
- Name and contact information for your Primary Care Doctor or Referring Physician
- Daytime phone number
Our Location:
Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center
2220 Pierce Ave.,
Nashville, TN 37232
Map and Directions