Pancreatic Neuroendocrine (Islet Cell) Tumors
A normal endocrine cell, like any cell in the body, must divide, mature, and differentiate to perform its intended function. The function of a normal neuroendocrine cell is the production of biological amines and regulatory peptides. When there is a disruption in the work of the hormonal system, it affects the work of all internal organs, including the pancreas.
A mutation occurs in the cell itself, after which it begins to grow chaotically and tumour forms. In the initial stages, it is difficult to detect pathology, since the symptoms are poorly expressed. Often, specialists can detect the disease in people aged 40-60 years. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours account for less than 2 per cent of all tumours. It is extremely important to detect the development of pathology at the initial stage.
Symptoms of the disease
If you have any of the following signs of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor:
- Increased appetite and weight gain;
- Weakness;
- Feeling of fear;
- Cardiopalmus;
- Heartburn;
- Feeling of heaviness;
- Dizziness;
- Pain in the side;
- The yellowness of the skin;
- Intestinal obstruction.
Only an experienced doctor can conduct a comprehensive examination and draw up the correct therapy regimen.
Diagnosis of the disease
To make the correct diagnosis, the doctor uses the following diagnostic methods:
- Examination;
- Blood test;
- Biopsy;
- PET-CT;
- Ultrasound;
- Laparoscopy;
- ERCP and others.
Based on the data obtained, the specialist will select the optimal therapy regimen, taking into account the peculiarities of the development of pathology and the general condition of the patient.
Treatment and rehabilitation
TAMC employs experienced doctors who have the highest qualifications and the necessary knowledge in the detection and treatment of masses in the pancreas. We use unique technologies and the latest equipment. Our staff provide round-the-clock care and monitoring for our patients. We try to create the most comfortable conditions for the hospital stay.
As a therapy, our specialists use the following methods: surgery; chemotherapy; radiation exposure; immunotherapy; targeted treatment. The last two methods are revolutionary and help to get rid of the disease with the help of the body’s immune system. After treatment, the doctor discharges the patient and gives him recommendations that must be followed at home.