Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors

Gastrointestinal (GI) neuroendocrine tumors, also known as GI carcinoid tumors, form in the lining of organs that make up the GI tract, including the stomach, appendix, intestines, and rectum. They arise from neuroendocrine cells that release hormones to help with digestion. 

GI neuroendocrine tumors are rare and typically slow growing. The majority occur in the small intestine, rectum, and appendix. 

Stomach conditions that affect the stomach’s ability to make acid—including atrophic gastritis, pernicious anemia, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome—can increase the risk of GI neuroendocrine tumors. A family history of the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) or neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) cancer predisposition syndromes can also affect the risk of GI neuroendocrine tumors. 

Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors Treatment (PDQ®)

Source: National Cancer Institute