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| Chapter 2 >> Diagnosing Neuroendocrine Tumours |
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Chapter 1 What is neuroendocrine cancer? |
Neuroendocrine cancer is formed in the diffuse neuroendocrine system. The diffuse neuroendocrine system is made up of cells found in the respiratory and digestive tracts. The respiratory tract includes the bronchial tubes and lungs. The digestive tract starts at the mouth and ends at the rectum.
Neuroendocrine cells are also located in endocrine glands, such as the adrenal glands, pancreas, thyroid and pituitary. These cells are also found in the ovaries and the testes.
Sites where neuroendocrine tumours can appear.
The purpose of the diffuse neuroendocrine system is to provide chemical signals to control a number of body functions. These functions include the digestion of food, the movement of food and waste in the small and large bowel (peristalsis), the stress response, thyroid function and many other important processes.
Neuroendocrine tumours are classified as functional (hormone-producing) or non-functional (non-hormone producing). These tumours are rare. They represent less than 1% of all cancers. In Canada this means there are about 2 new cases of neuroendocrine cancer for every 100,000 people every year.
What causes neuroendocrine cancer?
Most neuroendocrine tumours have no known cause. Neuroendocrine tumours are usually, but not always, slow growing. They may be present in a person’s body for many years before they cause problems.
It is rare that neuroendocrine tumours are genetic or inherited. The inherited cancers are referred to as MEN syndromes (MEN‐I and MEN‐II A+B).
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| Chapter 2 >> Diagnosing Neuroendocrine Tumours |
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