Neuroendocrine Tumour
Nuclear Medicine · Oncology
Moderate
Severity
Rare — affects approximately 5 in 100,000 people annually, though incidence has been rising with improved detection
Prevalence
No
Contagious
Nuclear Medicine
Specialist
📖What is Neuroendocrine Tumour?
Neuroendocrine tumours are a diverse group of growths that arise from specialized cells found throughout the body, most commonly in the digestive tract, pancreas, and lungs, which normally produce hormones in response to nervous system signals. These tumours can be either non-functioning, meaning they do not produce excess hormones and are often discovered incidentally, or functioning, in which case they secrete excessive amounts of specific hormones that cause a distinct pattern of symptoms depending on which hormone is involved. Neuroendocrine tumours range widely in behavior, from slow-growing tumours that remain stable for years to aggressive, rapidly spreading cancers, making accurate classification of their grade essential for treatment planning. Specialized imaging using radiolabeled tracers that bind to receptors on these tumour cells is particularly useful for both diagnosis and treatment.
Severity
Moderate
Specialty
Nuclear Medicine
Prevalence
Rare — affects approximately 5 in 100,000 people annually, though incidence has been rising with improved detection
Contagious
No
Category
Oncology
Treatment
Available
Verified Nuclear Medicine Specialists
Connect with 500+ verified Nuclear Medicine doctors across India. Real reviews, instant appointments, and insurance support.
Warning Signs — When to Seek Immediate Help
- Sudden severe worsening of Neuroendocrine Tumour symptoms not responding to prescribed treatment
- Difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or rapid heartbeat associated with Neuroendocrine Tumour
- High fever (above 39 °C / 102 °F) that does not improve with medication after 24 hours
- Confusion, altered consciousness, severe weakness, or inability to stand or speak clearly
- Signs of rapidly spreading infection — increasing redness, swelling, or skin changes
- Symptoms occurring in infants, elderly (65+), pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals
- No improvement after 48–72 hours of prescribed Neuroendocrine Tumour treatment
- New or different symptoms suggesting spread to other organ systems
🤒Common Symptoms
🔬Causes & Risk Factors
- 1Neuroendocrine tumours arise from genetic mutations within specialized hormone-producing cells that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably
- 2similar to other cancers
- 3though the specific triggering mutations often differ from more common cancer types. Some cases are linked to inherited genetic syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
- 4which significantly increases the risk of developing multiple neuroendocrine tumours over a lifetime. In most cases
- 5however
- 6the tumour arises sporadically without an identifiable inherited cause.
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
🩺How Doctors Diagnose Neuroendocrine Tumour
- 1Physical examination and complete medical history review by a Nuclear Medicine specialist
- 2Laboratory investigations — blood tests, urine analysis, and culture studies as indicated
- 3Imaging studies such as X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan depending on the suspected cause
- 4Biopsy, endoscopy, or other invasive diagnostic procedures if required
- 5Specialist consultation and further tests based on initial findings
- 6Regular monitoring and follow-up to assess disease progression and treatment response
💊Treatment Options
- 1Treatment depends on the tumour's location
- 2grade
- 3and whether it is functioning
- 4ranging from surgical removal for localized disease to a combination of somatostatin analog medications that control hormone-related symptoms and slow tumour growth
- 5targeted therapies
- 6and chemotherapy for more aggressive or advanced disease. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy
- 7which delivers targeted radiation directly to tumour cells using radiolabeled compounds
- 8is an important treatment option for tumours that express specific hormone receptors. Long-term surveillance with imaging and hormone level monitoring is necessary given the often slow-growing nature of these tumours.
🛡️Prevention of Neuroendocrine Tumour
- 1no proven way to prevent sporadic neuroendocrine tumours
- 2genetic counseling and screening for individuals with a family history of related inherited syndromes
- 3prompt evaluation of symptoms suggestive of excess hormone secretion
- 4regular surveillance for individuals with known genetic predisposition syndromes
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
Disease Progression Timeline
Onset
Neuroendocrine Tumour begins with mild or non-specific symptoms that may be easy to overlook. Early self-care may help at this stage.
Development
If untreated, symptoms gradually worsen. Medical evaluation is recommended when symptoms persist or affect daily activities.
Treatment Phase
With proper diagnosis and treatment from a Nuclear Medicine specialist, most patients experience significant improvement.
Recovery & Maintenance
Many patients achieve full recovery or effective long-term management with regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle habits.
Neuroendocrine Tumour Treatment Cost in India (2024–25)
| Service | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Nuclear Medicine Consultation | ₹300 – ₹1,500 | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Diagnostic Tests (Basic) | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Advanced Imaging (MRI/CT) | ₹2,000 – ₹6,000 | ₹6,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Hospitalisation (if required) | ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹1 lakh |
| Medications (Monthly) | ₹300 – ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 |
* Costs are approximate estimates for India (2024–25). Actual prices vary by city, hospital, and patient condition. Ayushman Bharat / CGHS may cover eligible treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Neuroendocrine Tumour?+
Neuroendocrine tumours are a diverse group of growths that arise from specialized cells found throughout the body, most commonly in the digestive tract, pancreas, and lungs, which normally produce hormones in response to nervous system signals. These tumours can be either non-functioning, meaning they do not produce excess hormones and are often discovered incidentally, or functioning, in which case they secrete excessive amounts of specific hormones that cause a distinct pattern of symptoms depending on which hormone is involved. Neuroendocrine tumours range widely in behavior, from slow-growing tumours that remain stable for years to aggressive, rapidly spreading cancers, making accurate classification of their grade essential for treatment planning. Specialized imaging using radiolabeled tracers that bind to receptors on these tumour cells is particularly useful for both diagnosis and treatment.
What are the main symptoms of Neuroendocrine Tumour?+
The most common symptoms include: flushing of the face and neck; chronic diarrhea; abdominal pain; wheezing or difficulty breathing. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.
Is Neuroendocrine Tumour contagious?+
No, Neuroendocrine Tumour is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.
How is Neuroendocrine Tumour treated?+
Treatment options include: Treatment depends on the tumour's location; grade; and whether it is functioning. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Nuclear Medicine specialist. Do not self-medicate.
Can Neuroendocrine Tumour be prevented?+
While Neuroendocrine Tumour cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: no proven way to prevent sporadic neuroendocrine tumours; genetic counseling and screening for individuals with a family history of related inherited syndromes; prompt evaluation of symptoms suggestive of excess hormone secretion.
When should I see a doctor for Neuroendocrine Tumour?+
Consult a Nuclear Medicine specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.
Community Q&A
Concerned About Neuroendocrine Tumour?
Early diagnosis makes a critical difference. Connect with Nuclear Medicine specialists at top hospitals near you today.
Why Lab Dekho?
- ✅500+ verified specialists
- 🏥200+ partner hospitals across India
- 💰Best price guarantee on all services
- 🔒Insurance & cashless assistance
- 📞24/7 medical helpline support
Book a Specialist Consultation
Talk to a Nuclear Medicine expert today
Quick Cost Estimate
Nuclear Medicine Specialists Available
Consult online · Avg wait 15 min
Sponsored
Talk to a Specialist
Get expert guidance for this condition
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional. In emergencies, call 112.