Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors, or PNETs, are rare, slow-growing tumors that develop in the pancreas. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Unlike common pancreatic cancer, these tumors originate from special cells in the pancreas called neuroendocrine cells. PNETs are uncommon, making up only a small percentage of pancreatic tumors. They are different from the more common pancreatic cancer that most people are familiar with. These tumors grow slowly and may not show symptoms for a long time.

Neuroendocrine cells are unique cells found in various parts of the body, including the pancreas. They have characteristics of both nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. These cells release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions. Think of neuroendocrine cells as the body’s messengers. They’re found in different organs, including the pancreas, and their job is to release hormones. In the pancreas, they can sometimes go haywire and form PNETs.

Types

Types of PNETs in simple, plain English to help you better understand these conditions. We’ll also optimize our explanations for search engines to make this information easy to find and comprehend.

1. Insulinomas

Insulinomas are a type of PNET that primarily affects the pancreas. These tumors are usually small and benign, which means they are not cancerous. Insulinomas produce too much insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels. As a result, people with insulinomas often experience low blood sugar, leading to symptoms like confusion, sweating, and shakiness. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor, and most patients can be cured.

2. Gastrinomas

Gastrinomas are another type of PNET. These tumors produce excessive amounts of a hormone called gastrin, which stimulates the stomach to produce more acid. This can lead to a condition called Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, causing severe stomach ulcers and digestive problems. Gastrinomas can be both benign and malignant (cancerous). Treatment options include medications to reduce stomach acid and surgery to remove the tumor.

3. Glucagonomas

Glucagonomas are rare PNETs that produce too much glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. High levels of glucagon can lead to symptoms like weight loss, skin rashes, and diabetes. These tumors are usually cancerous, and treatment involves a combination of surgery, medication, and sometimes chemotherapy.

4. Somatostatinomas

Somatostatinomas are a type of PNET that overproduce somatostatin, a hormone that regulates other hormones in the body. These tumors are often slow-growing and can be benign or malignant. Symptoms can vary widely and may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gallstones. Treatment options may include surgery to remove the tumor and medications to manage symptoms.

5. VIPomas

VIPomas are PNETs that secrete vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), a hormone that affects the digestive system. Excess VIP can lead to severe diarrhea, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. These tumors are typically cancerous and require a combination of surgery, medication, and other supportive treatments.

6. Non-Functioning PNETs

Non-functioning PNETs do not produce excess hormones, which makes them challenging to diagnose in the early stages. These tumors can be benign or malignant and may not cause noticeable symptoms until they grow large enough to press on nearby organs. Treatment often involves surgical removal and may also include chemotherapy or radiation therapy for malignant tumors.

7. Mixed Hormone-Producing Tumors

Sometimes, PNETs can produce more than one type of hormone, resulting in mixed hormone-producing tumors. These tumors can have a combination of symptoms associated with the hormones they overproduce, making diagnosis and treatment more complex. The treatment approach depends on the specific hormones involved and whether the tumor is benign or malignant.

8. Functional vs. Non-Functional PNETs

In addition to the specific types of PNETs mentioned above, it’s essential to understand the difference between functional and non-functional tumors. Functional PNETs produce hormones, leading to distinct symptoms related to hormone excess. Non-functional PNETs, on the other hand, do not produce excess hormones, which can make them harder to detect until they cause physical symptoms due to their size or location.

Causes

Possible causes of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors in plain and simple language, making it easier for everyone to understand.

1. Genetic Factors Genes play a role in controlling how our cells grow and divide. Mutations or changes in certain genes can increase the risk of PNETs. If someone in your family has had PNETs, you might be more likely to develop them too.
2. Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN1) Syndrome MEN1 is a rare genetic disorder that can lead to the development of various tumors, including PNETs. If you have MEN1, your chances of getting PNETs are higher.
3. Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) Syndrome VHL is another genetic disorder that increases the risk of different tumors, including PNETs. It’s caused by mutations in the VHL gene.
4. Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) NF1 is a genetic condition that can cause nerve-related tumors. People with NF1 have a slightly higher risk of developing PNETs.
5. Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) TSC is a genetic disorder that leads to the growth of non-cancerous tumors in various organs. PNETs can develop as part of TSC.
6. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome This syndrome is caused by tumors in the pancreas and duodenum that produce too much stomach acid. Prolonged exposure to high stomach acid levels might increase PNET risk.
7. Exposure to Certain Chemicals Some studies suggest that exposure to certain chemicals, such as certain pesticides and industrial chemicals, might raise the risk of PNETs.
8. Obesity Being significantly overweight can contribute to various health issues, including an increased risk of PNETs.
9. Smoking Smoking is a known risk factor for many types of cancers, including PNETs.
10. Alcohol Consumption Excessive alcohol consumption over time can harm the pancreas and potentially contribute to PNET development.
11. Diet High in Red Meat and Processed Foods A diet rich in red meat and processed foods might increase the risk of PNETs. Opting for a balanced diet is important.
12. Chronic Inflammation of the Pancreas (Pancreatitis) Inflammation over a long period can damage cells and increase the likelihood of tumor formation.
13. Type 2 Diabetes People with type 2 diabetes have a slightly higher risk of developing PNETs, although the exact link is still being studied.
14. Hormone Replacement Therapy Some studies suggest that long-term use of certain hormones might play a role in PNET development.
15. Radiation Exposure High doses of radiation, such as those used in cancer treatments, might increase the risk of PNETs.
16. Certain Hormone-producing Conditions Conditions that lead to the overproduction of hormones, like hyperinsulinemia, might raise the PNET risk.
17. Age While PNETs can occur at any age, they are more common in older individuals.
18. Gender Some studies indicate that PNETs might be slightly more common in women than in men.
19. Race and Ethnicity Certain racial and ethnic groups may have a higher predisposition to PNETs.
20. Liver Cirrhosis Liver cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver tissue, could be linked to an increased risk of PNETs.
21. Family History of Cancer A history of cancer in your family, not just PNETs, could elevate your risk.
22. High Blood Pressure Hypertension might contribute to the development of PNETs, although more research is needed.
23. High Cholesterol Levels Elevated cholesterol levels could potentially play a role in PNET risk.
24. Estrogen Exposure Increased exposure to estrogen, either through medications or other sources, could be a contributing factor.
25. Low Vitamin D Levels Some studies suggest that low vitamin D levels might be associated with a higher PNET risk.
26. Chronic Gastric Acid Hypersecretion Excessive production of stomach acid over time might be linked to PNETs.
27. Immunosuppression A weakened immune system might not effectively control abnormal cell growth, potentially leading to PNET development.
28. Chronic Kidney Disease People with chronic kidney disease might have a slightly increased risk of PNETs.
29. Occupational Exposures Certain occupations with exposure to toxins or carcinogens could raise the risk of PNETs.
30. Unknown Factors Despite advancements, there might be other factors not yet identified that play a role in PNET development.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of PNETs in plain English, making it easier for you to recognize them.

1. Abdominal Pain

One of the first signs might be a dull, persistent pain in the upper abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back. This pain can vary from person to person. Persistent upper abdominal pain is a key indicator of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

2. Changes in Bowel Habits

You may notice changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or stools that appear greasier than usual. Pay attention to any unusual changes in your bowel movements, like diarrhea or greasy stools.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of PNETs. You might notice clothes fitting looser or a significant drop in your weight. Unexplained weight loss is a concerning symptom associated with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

4. Jaundice

Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and the whites of your eyes. It occurs when the tumor blocks the bile ducts. Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, may indicate a Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor.

5. Changes in Appetite

You might experience a loss of appetite or a sudden increase in hunger. Pay attention to any unusual changes in your appetite, as they could be a sign of PNETs.

6. Fatigue

Persistent fatigue or weakness that doesn’t improve with rest is another symptom to be aware of.  If you’re constantly feeling tired and weak, it could be linked to Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

7. Nausea and Vomiting

Frequent nausea or vomiting, especially after meals, can be a sign of PNETs. Persistent nausea and vomiting are potential symptoms of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

8. Skin Rash or Flushing

Some people with PNETs may develop skin rashes or experience flushing, which is when your skin turns red and feels warm. Skin rash or flushing could be indicative of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

9. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

PNETs can produce hormones that lower blood sugar levels, leading to symptoms like shakiness, confusion, and sweating. Keep an eye out for signs of low blood sugar, including shakiness and confusion, as they may be related to PNETs.

10. Heart Palpitations

Some individuals with PNETs might experience irregular heartbeats or a rapid heartbeat. Heart palpitations could be associated with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

11. High Blood Pressure

Elevated blood pressure that’s hard to control can be a symptom of PNETs. Difficult-to-control high blood pressure may signal the presence of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

12. Anxiety or Panic Attacks

Feelings of anxiety or panic attacks may occur in some cases of PNETs. Anxiety and panic attacks can be associated with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

13. Changes in Urination

You may notice changes in urination patterns, such as increased frequency or dark-colored urine. Pay attention to changes in urination, as they could be linked to Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

14. Back Pain

Persistent pain in the lower back or the side can be a symptom, especially if it doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers. Unrelenting lower back pain might be an indicator of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

15. Skin Lesions

Some individuals may develop skin lesions or lumps around the abdomen. Be aware of any unusual skin lesions or lumps, as they may be related to PNETs.

16. Vision Problems

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances may occur, although this is less common. While less common, be mindful of any changes in your vision, including blurred vision.

17. Swelling in the Legs and Feet

Swelling in the lower extremities, such as the legs and feet, could be a sign of PNETs. Swelling in the legs and feet should be evaluated, as it may be associated with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

18. Difficulty Breathing

In rare cases, PNETs can cause difficulty breathing or wheezing. If you experience sudden difficulty breathing or wheezing, it’s important to consider the possibility of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

19. Joint Pain

Some individuals may develop joint pain or stiffness, although this is not as common as other symptoms. While less common, joint pain or stiffness should not be ignored, as it could be linked to PNETs.

20. Unexplained Fever

If you have a fever without any other apparent cause, it’s essential to investigate further, as it could be related to PNETs. An unexplained fever should prompt you to consider the possibility of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

Diagnosis

diagnostic tests for PNETs, explaining each in plain English to help you understand them better and optimize it for search engines.

Section 1: Blood Tests

1. Chromogranin A Test:
   • This blood test measures a substance released by PNETs. Elevated levels can indicate the presence of a tumor.
2. Pancreatic Hormone Levels:
   • PNETs can affect hormone production. Blood tests can measure insulin, glucagon, gastrin, and other hormones to identify irregularities.
3. Complete Blood Count (CBC):
   • CBC helps assess overall health and detect anemia, which can be a symptom of PNETs.

Section 2: Imaging Tests

4. CT Scan (Computed Tomography):
   • A CT scan creates detailed cross-sectional images of the pancreas, aiding in tumor detection and localization.
5. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):
   • MRI uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images and can help visualize PNETs more clearly.
6. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):
   • EUS combines an endoscope with ultrasound to get closer and more precise images of the pancreas and any potential tumors.
7. PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography):
   • PET scans use a radioactive tracer to highlight areas with higher metabolic activity, including PNETs.
8. SPECT Scan (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography):
   • Similar to a PET scan, SPECT scans can help pinpoint PNETs by showing abnormal metabolic activity.

Section 3: Biopsy and Tissue Sampling

9. Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA):
   • During an EUS or CT-guided procedure, a thin needle is used to extract a small tissue sample for examination.
10. Core Biopsy:
    • A larger sample of tissue is obtained for a more in-depth analysis to confirm the presence of PNETs.

Section 4: Hormone Tests

11. Insulin Level Testing:
    • To diagnose insulinoma (a type of PNET), insulin levels are measured when low blood sugar is suspected.
12. Gastrin Level Testing:
    • Elevated gastrin levels can indicate a type of PNET called gastrinoma.
13. Glucagon Level Testing:
    • High glucagon levels may suggest a glucagonoma, another type of PNET.
14. VIP Level Testing:
    • For suspected VIPoma, this test measures levels of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP).

Section 5: Genetic Testing

15. Genetic Screening:
    • Some PNETs are associated with genetic syndromes. Genetic tests can identify these mutations, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Section 6: Functional Tests

16. Secretin Test:
    • This test helps evaluate the functionality of the pancreas and can identify abnormalities caused by PNETs.

Section 7: Blood Sugar Monitoring

17. Glucose Tolerance Test:
    • PNETs can affect blood sugar levels. This test assesses how your body processes glucose over time.

Section 8: Biomarker Tests

18. Pancreastatin Blood Test:
    • Elevated levels of pancreastatin may suggest the presence of PNETs.
19. Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) Test:
    • This test measures a biomarker often elevated in neuroendocrine tumors.

Section 9: Immunohistochemistry

20. Immunohistochemical Staining:
    • During biopsy analysis, this technique helps identify specific markers that indicate the presence of PNETs.

Section 10: Molecular Imaging

21. Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy (SRS):
    • This specialized scan uses a radioactive tracer to detect PNETs with high somatostatin receptor expression.

Section 11: Laparoscopy

22. Diagnostic Laparoscopy:
    • In cases where other tests are inconclusive, laparoscopy provides a direct view of the abdomen and can help detect PNETs.

Section 12: Histopathology

23. Histopathological Examination:
    • After a biopsy or surgery, a pathologist examines tissue samples under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.

Section 13: Molecular Profiling

24. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS):
    • NGS analyzes a tumor’s DNA to identify specific genetic mutations, guiding treatment decisions.

Section 14: Staging Tests

25. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP):
    • ERCP helps assess the extent of tumor involvement in the bile ducts and pancreas.
26. Lymph Node Biopsy:
    • To determine if PNETs have spread to nearby lymph nodes, a biopsy may be performed.

Section 15: Bone Scans

27. Bone Scintigraphy:
    • This test checks for PNET metastasis to the bones by detecting abnormal bone activity.

Section 16: Liver Function Tests

28. Liver Enzyme Tests:
    • As PNETs can spread to the liver, liver enzyme tests help monitor liver health.

Section 17: Urine Tests

29. 5-HIAA Urine Test:
    • This test measures the presence of a substance associated with certain types of PNETs.
30. Catecholamine Urine Test:
    • For suspected pheochromocytoma, this urine test checks for elevated levels of catecholamines.

Treatment

Treatments for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors in plain and simple language.

1. Surgery: Surgery involves removing the tumor from the pancreas. It’s effective for early-stage tumors that haven’t spread.

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill or slow down tumor cells. It’s often used for advanced PNETs.

3. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It can be used before or after surgery.

4. Targeted Therapy: Targeted drugs focus on specific molecules that fuel tumor growth, stopping their progression.

5. Hormone Therapy: Some PNETs release hormones; hormone therapy helps control hormone production.

6. Embolization: This procedure blocks blood vessels supplying the tumor, reducing its blood supply and growth.

7. Ablation Therapy: Ablation uses extreme temperatures or energy to destroy tumor cells.

8. Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT): PRRT combines a targeted molecule with a radioactive substance to kill tumor cells.

9. Watchful Waiting: For slow-growing tumors, doctors monitor their growth without immediate treatment.

10. Liver-Directed Therapies: For tumors that spread to the liver, therapies like radioembolization target liver tumors specifically.

11. Biological Therapies: These boost the body’s immune system to fight tumor cells more effectively.

12. Cryoablation: Similar to ablation, cryoablation freezes and destroys tumor cells.

13. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy enhances the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

14. Supportive Care: This focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

15. Medications for Symptom Relief: Medications help control symptoms like pain, diarrhea, and hormonal imbalances.

16. Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement: PNETs can affect enzyme production; supplements aid digestion.

17. Nutritional Support: Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for overall health during treatment.

18. Pain Management: Effective pain relief strategies enhance the patient’s comfort.

19. Clinical Trials: Participating in research studies can provide access to innovative treatments.

20. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): RFA uses high-frequency energy to heat and destroy tumor cells.

21. Microwave Ablation: Microwaves target and eliminate cancer cells through heat.

22. Chemoradiotherapy: Combining chemotherapy and radiation therapy can enhance treatment effectiveness.

23. Multimodal Therapy: Using multiple treatments together often yields better outcomes.

24. Anti-Angiogenic Therapy: These drugs obstruct the growth of blood vessels that feed tumors.

25. Somatostatin Analogues: These drugs control hormone release in PNETs.

26. Everolimus: A medication that inhibits cell growth in PNETs.

27. Sunitinib: This targeted therapy disrupts tumor cell growth.

28. Streptozocin: Used for PNETs that affect insulin production.

29. Interferon Therapy: Interferon slows tumor growth and boosts the immune system.

30. Octreotide: Helps manage hormone-related symptoms in PNETs.

Medications

Drug treatments for PNETs in plain English. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply seeking information, this guide will provide you with clear and concise details.

1. Lanreotide (Somatuline Depot):
   • What it does: Lanreotide helps control hormone production in PNETs, reducing symptoms like diarrhea and flushing.
   • How it works: It slows down the release of hormones from the tumor cells.
   • Benefits: Better symptom management and potentially slower tumor growth.
   • Side Effects: Digestive issues, injection site pain.
   • When it’s used: Typically for symptom relief and slowing tumor growth.
2. Octreotide (Sandostatin):
   • What it does: Octreotide, like lanreotide, controls hormone-related symptoms in PNETs.
   • How it works: It blocks excess hormone release.
   • Benefits: Relief from diarrhea, flushing, and other hormonal symptoms.
   • Side Effects: Digestive problems, pain at the injection site.
   • When it’s used: Mainly for symptom management.
3. Everolimus (Afinitor):
   • What it does: Everolimus inhibits the growth of PNETs by targeting specific proteins.
   • How it works: It interferes with signals that tell tumor cells to divide and grow.
   • Benefits: Slower tumor growth and potential symptom relief.
   • Side Effects: Fatigue, mouth sores, rash.
   • When it’s used: For advanced or progressing PNETs.
4. Sunitinib (Sutent):
   • What it does: Sunitinib is another drug used to slow down the growth of PNETs.
   • How it works: It blocks signals that promote tumor cell growth.
   • Benefits: Slower tumor growth and possibly symptom improvement.
   • Side Effects: Fatigue, diarrhea, high blood pressure.
   • When it’s used: Typically for advanced or metastatic PNETs.
5. Temozolomide (Temodar):
   • What it does: Temozolomide is a chemotherapy drug used to kill fast-growing tumor cells.
   • How it works: It damages the DNA inside tumor cells.
   • Benefits: Shrinking or stabilizing tumors.
   • Side Effects: Nausea, fatigue, low blood cell counts.
   • When it’s used: For aggressive PNETs that haven’t responded to other treatments.
6. Streptozocin:
   • What it does: Streptozocin is another chemotherapy option for PNETs.
   • How it works: It disrupts DNA in tumor cells, preventing them from dividing.
   • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth.
   • Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, low blood sugar.
   • When it’s used: For unresectable or metastatic PNETs.
7. Cisplatin and Etoposide:
   • What they do: These are a combination of chemotherapy drugs used together.
   • How they work: They target fast-dividing cancer cells.
   • Benefits: Shrinking tumors and slowing cancer growth.
   • Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, hair loss.
   • When they’re used: For aggressive PNETs that require strong treatment.
8. Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha):
   • What it does: Interferon-alpha helps regulate the immune system’s response to PNETs.
   • How it works: It boosts the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells.
   • Benefits: Potential tumor shrinkage and symptom relief.
   • Side Effects: Flu-like symptoms, fatigue.
   • When it’s used: Sometimes used in combination with other treatments.
9. Capecitabine (Xeloda):
   • What it does: Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapy drug.
   • How it works: It’s converted into a substance that interferes with DNA synthesis in tumor cells.
   • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth and ease of administration (oral form).
   • Side Effects: Hand-foot syndrome, nausea.
   • When it’s used: As an alternative to intravenous chemotherapy.
10. Bevacizumab (Avastin):
    • What it does: Bevacizumab targets blood vessels that supply the tumor.
    • How it works: It inhibits the growth of new blood vessels in the tumor.
    • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth by cutting off its blood supply.
    • Side Effects: High blood pressure, bleeding risk.
    • When it’s used: Sometimes combined with other treatments for advanced PNETs.
11. CABOMETYX (Cabozantinib):
    • What it does: CABOMETYX targets multiple pathways involved in cancer growth.
    • How it works: It inhibits signals that promote tumor cell growth and new blood vessel formation.
    • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth and potentially extending survival.
    • Side Effects: Diarrhea, fatigue, high blood pressure.
    • When it’s used: For advanced or progressing PNETs.
12. Lenvatinib (Lenvima):
    • What it does: Lenvatinib is another medication that targets blood vessel growth.
    • How it works: It blocks multiple pathways that promote angiogenesis (blood vessel formation).
    • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth by reducing blood supply.
    • Side Effects: Fatigue, diarrhea, high blood pressure.
    • When it’s used: Often in advanced PNETs.
13. Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT):
    • What it does: PRRT combines a peptide with a radioactive substance to target tumor cells.
    • How it works: The radioactive substance destroys cancer cells.
    • Benefits: Targeted treatment for PNETs.
    • Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, kidney issues.
    • When it’s used: When other treatments haven’t been effective.
14. Radiolabeled Somatostatin Analogues (RLSAs):
    • What they do: RLSAs combine somatostatin analogues with radioactive elements.
    • How they work: They target PNET cells with high somatostatin receptor expression.
    • Benefits: Precise treatment for certain PNETs.
    • Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, kidney issues.
    • When they’re used: When tumors have a high somatostatin receptor presence.
15. Sulfasalazine:
    • What it does: Sulfasalazine may help suppress inflammation in PNETs.
    • How it works: It reduces inflammatory responses.
    • Benefits: Potential symptom relief.
    • Side Effects: Digestive issues, headache.
    • When it’s used: Sometimes considered as an experimental option.
16. Interleukin-2 (IL-2):
    • What it does: IL-2 stimulates the immune system to target cancer cells.
    • How it works: It boosts the activity of immune cells.
    • Benefits: Potential immune response against PNETs.
    • Side Effects: Flu-like symptoms, low blood pressure.
    • When it’s used: In some cases, as part of immunotherapy approaches.
17. Pazopanib (Votrient):
    • What it does: Pazopanib is a targeted therapy that inhibits the growth of new blood vessels.
    • How it works: It interferes with angiogenesis.
    • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth.
    • Side Effects: Fatigue, high blood pressure.
    • When it’s used: For advanced PNETs.
18. Regorafenib (Stivarga):
    • What it does: Regorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor.
    • How it works: It targets various pathways involved in cancer growth.
    • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth.
    • Side Effects: Fatigue, hand-foot syndrome.
    • When it’s used: Typically for advanced PNETs.
19. Sorafenib (Nexavar):
    • What it does: Sorafenib is another multikinase inhibitor.
    • How it works: It disrupts several pathways that promote cancer growth.
    • Benefits: Slowing tumor growth.
    • Side Effects: Fatigue, hand-foot syndrome.
    • When it’s used: In advanced PNET cases.
20. Radiation Therapy:
    • What it does: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill or shrink cancer cells.
    • How it works: It damages the DNA inside cancer cells.
    • Benefits: Targeted treatment for specific tumor sites.
    • Side Effects: Fatigue, skin changes.
    • When it’s used: In combination with other treatments or for symptom relief.

Conclusion:

Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors can be challenging to manage, but there’s a wide array of treatments available, ranging from surgery and chemotherapy to targeted therapies and supportive care. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as tumor size, location, and stage. It’s crucial for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to determine the most suitable treatment plan. By staying informed about these treatments, patients and their loved ones can make well-informed decisions that positively impact their journey toward better health and improved quality of life.

Disclaimer: Always seek the advice of a medical professional before trying any treatments. This guide is for general information purposes only.

References