Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (also referred to as islet cell tumors, islet cell carcinoma, or pancreatic carcinoid) are tumors that form from the hormone-producing cells in the pancreas. These tumors differ from adenocarcinomas of the pancreas and can produce symptoms due to the excessive secretion of hormones. They are generally considered to be slow growing and are treatable even after they have metastasized.
Non-functioning islet cell tumors
Symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- A mass or pain in the abdomen
- Jaundice
- Irractic Blood Sugar
Diagnosis
- CT scan, MRI, or EUS
- Blood Tests
- Liver Function Tests
- Serum Billirubin Tests
- Endoscopic Retrograde Choloangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- Pancreatic Biopsy
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumor is the preferred treatment. The type of surgery performed depends upon the location and size of the tumor.
