Somatostatin Receptor Positive Neuroendocrine Tumours

Somatostatin Receptor Positive Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs) are a type of cancer that start in the cells in the body that release hormones. These types of tumors are found most commonly in the gastrointestinal tract, but can also be found in other parts of the body, including the pancreas, thyroid, and lungs. They usually grow slowly, and if they are not treated, can spread to other parts of the body.

Somatostatin receptor-positive NETs are characterized by having receptors on the surface of their cells that allow them to absorb the hormone somatostatin. Somatostatin is a hormone that typically helps control the amount of certain hormones that are released throughout the body. Because of the receptors on the NETs, these tumors can absorb high concentrations of somatostatin, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor development.

Somatostatin receptor-positive NETs can be classified into two types: functioning NETs and non-functioning NETs. Functioning NETs produce hormones, which can cause symptoms such as fluid retention, diarrhea, palpitations, headache, and/or flushing. Non-functioning NETs do not produce hormones and may go undetected for years, until they grow to a size that can be detected on an imaging study.

Treatment for somatostatin receptor-positive NETs usually includes surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Targeted therapy may also be an option for some tumors. Targeted therapy focuses on specific changes in cancer cells that allow them to evade the body’s immune system, grow, and spread.

The prognosis for somatostatin receptor-positive NETs depends on the stage of the tumor and how much it has spread. As with many forms of cancer, early detection is key to improving the prognosis. Regular check-ups and imaging studies should be done to monitor for changes in the tumor.

Treatments for Somatostatin Receptor Positive Neuroendocrine Tumours:

Surgery: To remove the tumor and any affected tissue or organs.
Radiation Therapy: To destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: To destroy cancer cells and inhibit their growth.
Targeted Therapy: To target changes in cancer cells that allow them to evade the body’s immune system, grow, and spread.