Neuroendocrine neoplasm of esophagus

A neuroendocrine neoplasm of the esophagus (also called esophageal neuroendocrine tumor, or esophageal NET/NEN) is a rare type of cancer that starts in the hormone-producing nerve cells lining the esophagus — the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. These tumors grow from special cells called neuroendocrine cells, which normally help control digestion by releasing hormones and chemical signals. Because these cells are scattered throughout the digestive tract, tumors can form anywhere along it, but the esophagus is one of the least common sites. Most esophageal neuroendocrine neoplasms are high-grade (aggressive) tumors, often called small cell carcinoma or large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the esophagus. They tend to grow and spread quickly, which means they are often found at an advanced stage. Symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, chest pain or discomfort, and sometimes a persistent cough or hoarseness. Some tumors may release hormones that cause additional symptoms throughout the body. Treatment usually involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and sometimes surgery, depending on how far the cancer has spread. Because this is such a rare tumor, treatment is often guided by approaches used for similar neuroendocrine cancers in other parts of the body. Research is ongoing, and patients are often encouraged to seek care at specialized cancer centers with experience in rare gastrointestinal tumors.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What grade and stage is my tumor, and what does that mean for my treatment options?,Is surgery an option for me, or is chemotherapy and radiation the main approach?,Are there any clinical trials I might be eligible for?,Should I be seen at a specialized neuroendocrine tumor center?,What are the goals of treatment — is cure possible, or is the focus on controlling the cancer?,How will treatment affect my ability to eat and swallow, and what nutritional support is available?,What signs or symptoms should prompt me to call you or go to the emergency room?

Common questions about Neuroendocrine neoplasm of esophagus