Neuroendocrine Tumor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Written by Achuta Uppu, MD. Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Neuroendocrine Tumor?
Neuroendocrine tumors are usually managed by a team of specialists, often including an oncologist, who treats cancer, and sometimes an endocrinologist, who treats hormone problems. A surgeon may be involved if the tumor can be removed. A neurologist is not usually the main doctor for these tumors, despite the name.
What it is
A neuroendocrine tumor is a growth that starts in cells that act like a mix of nerve cells and hormone-making cells. Most grow in the digestive system, the pancreas, or the lungs. Some make extra hormones, which can cause symptoms all over the body; others make no hormones and may grow quietly for years.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on where the tumor is and whether it makes extra hormones. Many people have no symptoms at first, so these tumors are sometimes found by accident. When a tumor releases extra hormones, a person may have flushing, diarrhea, a fast heartbeat, or wheezing. Doctors call this group of signs carcinoid syndrome.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not fully know what causes most neuroendocrine tumors. The tumors start when cells develop changes in their genes, which usually happen by chance and are not passed down from parents. Some cases run in families because of inherited conditions, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia.
How doctors diagnose it
Blood and urine tests can show whether the body is making too much of certain hormones. Imaging scans, such as CT or MRI, help doctors see where the tumor is and how big it is. To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor often takes a small sample of the tumor, called a biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment depends on where the tumor is, whether it has spread, and how fast it is growing. Surgery is often the first choice when the tumor has not spread. Medicines can block the hormones the tumor makes and ease symptoms. Other options include drugs that slow tumor growth, radiation therapy, and targeted treatments.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have symptoms that do not go away, such as unexplained flushing, ongoing diarrhea, belly pain, or a lingering cough. These symptoms usually have other causes, but they deserve a checkup.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance for visits, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either one can order initial tests, arrange imaging, and manage symptoms, and will refer you to an oncologist or surgeon when a tumor is found or suspected.
Common questions
Are neuroendocrine tumors always cancer?
Not always. Many grow slowly and some behave in a mild way. Others grow quickly and spread. Doctors grade each tumor to describe how fast it is likely to grow.
Can neuroendocrine tumors be cured?
Surgery can remove some tumors completely, especially when they have not spread. Results differ from person to person. Some tumors need long-term monitoring or treatment instead.
What is carcinoid syndrome?
It is a group of symptoms caused by hormones released into the bloodstream by some neuroendocrine tumors. Common signs include flushing, diarrhea, and a fast heartbeat. Not every patient develops it.
How common are these tumors?
They are uncommon compared with many other growths, but diagnoses have risen in recent years. Better imaging tests have helped doctors find them more often.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Neuroendocrine neoplasm
- National Cancer Institute - Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors - Patient Version
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
