What are small bowel neuroendocrine tumours?

Small bowel neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are rare tumours that start in the neuroendocrine cells of the small bowel.

Symptoms of small bowel neuroendocrine tumours

Small bowel NETs don’t always cause symptoms. If you do have symptoms they can include tummy pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and tiredness.

Getting diagnosed

Most people start by seeing their GP who might then refer you to a specialist. Find out about how to get the most out of these appointments and the tests you might have.

Stages of small bowel neuroendocrine tumours

The stage of a small bowel NET tells you how big it is and whether it has spread.

Grades of small bowel neuroendocrine tumours

The grade of a small bowel NET tells you how much the NET cells look like normal cells under the microscope.

Survival

Survival depends on many factors, so you should only use these statistics as a guide. Find out about survival for people with small bowel NETs.

Treatment for small bowel neuroendocrine tumours

Treatment depends on a number of factors including where the NET started, the stage and grade of the tumour and your general health.

Follow up for small bowel neuroendocrine tumours

You have regular appointments with your doctor or nurse after treatment for your small bowel NET finishes. This is called follow up.

Living with NETs

Get practical and emotional support to help you cope with a neuroendocrine tumour.

Research and clinical trials for large bowel and rectal NETs

Researchers are looking at the biology of NETs and trying to improve the diagnosis and treatment of bowel NETs.

Last reviewed: 
11 Jun 2021
Next review due: 
11 Jun 2024