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Neuroendocrine Tumors
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) arise from hormone-producing cells in organs like the gut, pancreas and lungs. Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment-ranging from medications and minimally invasive procedures to dietary and lifestyle guidance-for improved outcomes.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Are Neuroendocrine Tumors?
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare growths that arise from neuroendocrine cells, which are found throughout the body and help control various bodily functions by releasing hormones. These tumors can develop in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, or lungs, and may be benign or malignant. Symptoms vary depending on the tumor's location and whether it produces hormones, and can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, flushing, or unexplained weight loss. Diagnosis often involves blood and urine tests, advanced imaging, and biopsy. Treatment options include surgery, hormone therapy, targeted drugs, and peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), with care tailored to tumor type and stage. Early detection improves outcomes significantly.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of inherited syndromes (e.g., MEN1)
He discusses your epigastric pain patterns, hormone related symptoms (flushing, diarrhea, hypoglycemia), and family history of NETs, then performs a targeted physical exam.
Lab Tests
Blood and urine assays measure tumor markers and hormone levels-chromogranin A, gastrin, insulin, and 5-HIAA-to detect functional NETs.
Imaging Studies
Contrast enhanced CT or MRI locates lesions in the pancreas, gut, liver, or lungs.
Somatostatin receptor PET/CT (e.g., DOTATATE PET) highlights small or metastatic tumors.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration or endoscopic biopsy provides tissue confirmation and grading.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for neuroendocrine tumors.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet
Try small, frequent meals to prevent hormone spikes
Drink plenty of fluids
Use stress-relief tools like meditation or breathing exercises
2. Medications
Somatostatin analogs to slow tumor growth and control hormone levels
Targeted therapies aimed at specific tumor types
Chemotherapy for faster-growing or advanced NETs
3. Minimally Invasive and Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic resection to remove small tumors from the GI tract
Radiofrequency ablation to destroy liver tumors using heat
Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) delivering radiation directly to NET cells
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are neuroendocrine tumors cancer?
Some NETs grow slowly and act like benign tumors, while others can be malignant and spread if not treated.
What types of NETs are common?
The most common NETs are carcinoid tumors in the gut and lungs, as well as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
How soon will I feel better after starting treatment?
Many patients notice symptom relief within a few weeks of beginning therapy.
Will I need surgery to treat my NET?
Not always. Small tumors can often be managed with medications or removed via minimally invasive procedures.
Can lifestyle changes really help with NET symptoms?
Yes. A balanced, low-fat diet, small frequent meals, proper hydration, and stress management can reduce symptoms.
Can NETs come back after treatment?
They can recur, which is why regular follow-up visits and imaging studies are essential.
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