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Neuroendocrine Tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) arise from hormone-producing cells in organs such as the pancreas, intestines and lungs. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers advanced diagnosis, personalized treatment and compassionate support to manage these rare tumors and improve patient outcomes.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Family history of NETs or inherited syndromes (e.g., MEN1)
  • Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract
  • Hormone imbalances
  • Age over 50 years

Signs and Symptoms

  • Abdominal pain or cramps
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Flushing or redness of the face
  • Diarrhea or changes in bowel habits
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Skin rashes or weakness from low blood sugar

Expert Treatment for Neuroendocrine Tumors by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms (epigastric pain, flushing, diarrhea), family history of NETs or MEN syndromes, and any hormone-related signs.

Laboratory Tests

Blood and urine assays measure hormone levels and tumor markers such as chromogranin A, serotonin metabolites (5-HIAA), gastrin, insulin and others.

Imaging Studies

  • CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to locate primary tumors and assess lymph nodes.
  • MRI for detailed soft-tissue contrast, especially in the liver and pancreas.
  • Functional imaging (Gallium-68 DOTATATE PET/CT or octreotide scan) to map tumor spread and receptor status.

Endoscopy and Tissue Sampling

An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or colonoscopy allows direct visualization of the tumor and guided biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and grading.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our team offers a full range of care for neuroendocrine tumor disease.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support overall health
  • Avoid foods that may trigger hormone-related symptoms (e.g., alcohol, caffeine)
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can worsen symptoms

2. Medications

  • Use somatostatin analogs to control hormone secretion and alleviate symptoms
  • Employ targeted therapies to inhibit tumor growth and progression
  • Provide symptom-specific medications such as anti-diarrheals or pain management agents

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic removal of small localized tumors when feasible
  • Laparoscopic or open surgery for tumor resection in complex cases
  • Participation in clinical trials offering novel treatment options
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the survival rate for neuroendocrine tumors?

Survival varies by tumor type, location, and stage. Many patients with early-stage NETs live for many years. Dr. Pothuri will review your specific prognosis and treatment goals.

Can diet help control NETs?

A balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help manage symptoms like diarrhea and flushing but cannot replace medical treatment. Dr. Pothuri can recommend meal plans to support your therapy.

How often should I come back for follow-up?

Most patients return every 3-6 months for blood tests, hormone panels, and imaging scans. Your schedule may be adjusted based on tumor behavior and treatment response.

Can NETs run in families?

Some NETs are linked to inherited syndromes such as MEN1. If you have a family history, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended to assess your risk.

Does insurance cover treatment?

Most major health plans cover NET diagnostics and therapies. Our billing team works with your insurer to obtain authorizations and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can I travel while being treated?

Generally, yes. We'll help you plan your treatment schedule around trips and provide guidance on medication storage, local medical resources, and managing symptoms on the road.

Are there support groups in Houston?

Absolutely. We can connect you with local NET support groups, patient education events, and online communities to share experiences and find encouragement.

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