Signs and Symptoms
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a GEP-NET?
GEP-NET symptoms vary, depending on the specific type. While a type of GEP-NET may not cause any symptoms specific to the tumor (nonfunctional), another type could lead to overproduction of hormones that could result in specific symptoms, depending on the type of hormone being overproduced (functional).
Some Signs and Symptoms of a GEP-NET Include: | |||
 Diarrhea |  High blood pressure (hypertension) |  Headache |  Vomiting |
 Redness of the face and neck (flushing) |  Extreme tiredness (fatigue) |  Nausea | |
GEP-NET is often misdiagnosed; however, there are various methods that can help your health care professional make the right diagnosis. Often, your health care professional will use a combination of tests and scans to diagnose, monitor, and treat a GEP-NET.
Tests That May Help Confirm Your Diagnosis
GEP-NET diagnosis can depend on the kind of tumor and whether or not it is causing a particular pattern of symptoms. Your health care professional may order a number of tests to learn about your GEP-NET and monitor your condition.
Imaging Tests | |
Computed tomography (CT) | A CT scan uses x-rays to take pictures of the inside of the body. It takes many x-rays of the same body part from different angles to help your doctor tell if your tumor has grown, changed, or spread. |
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) | An MRI scan uses radio waves and powerful magnets to take pictures of the inside of the body. This type of scan is good at showing the spine and soft tissues. |
Ultrasound | An ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to form pictures of the inside of the body. |
Positron emission tomography (PET) | A PET scan is designed to show cancer cells and whether cancer has spread. |
Blood and Urine Tests | |
Complete blood count (CBC) | A CBC measures the number of blood cells in a blood sample. |
Biochemical tests | Biochemical testing measures certain substances like hormones that may be present with a NET. Certain symptoms are seen when your body makes too much of a certain hormone. |
Urine tests | Besides blood, doctors also test urine to look for signs of disease. Urine tests can also assess if your kidneys are working well. |
Biopsy | |
Fine-needle biopsy | A biopsy is a procedure that removes samples of fluid or tissue. |
