Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors (Health Professionals)

Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors form from a type of neuroendocrine cell (a cell that is like a nerve cell and a hormone-making cell). These cells are scattered throughout the chest and abdomen, but most are found in the GI tract. Neuroendocrine cells make hormones that help control digestive juices and the muscles used in moving food through the stomach and intestines. A gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumorstumor may also make hormones and release them into the body. These tumors usually grow slowly and are classified as low-grade tumors, but in some cases may begin to grow rapidly.

The following is syndicated content from the National Cancer Institute (NCI).