Neuroendocrine Tumors: Treatment and Management

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are abnormal growths that can occur anywhere in the body.

NETs have historically been considered rare, but recent studies show that the incidence of NETs has steadily increased over the last several decades. These slow growing tumors may cause vague symptoms for many years that can be mistaken for other diseases and conditions. As a result, many patients may undergo evaluation by multiple physicians and centers before reaching the final diagnosis of NETs.

Current treatments

Over the past few years, there have been several advancements in the imaging and management of neuroendocrine tumors. Treatment plans are individualized for each patient and can include a combination of following therapeutic options: surgery, systemic therapies (somatostatin analogues, oral/intravenous chemotherapies), specialized liver-directed therapies (trans-arterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation) and peptide radionuclide receptor therapy (PRRT).

Our approach

The Ochsner Neuroendocrine Tumor Program is a multidisciplinary team that specializes in the treatment and management of neuroendocrine tumors. Our team includes medical oncologists, interventional radiologists, hepatobiliary surgeons, surgical oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, nutritionists, infusion center nurses. Cases are discussed at a weekly multidisciplinary conference, and management plans are individualized for each patient.

Ochsner has extensive experience in caring for patients with neuroendocrine tumors, including over 3000 patients to date. We believe that this multidisciplinary, individualized approached to patient care leads to excellent outcomes for our patients.

For more information about the Ochsner Neuroendocrine Tumor Program and our approach to treating NETs, click here.