Neuroendocrine Tumor Clinical Program, Chicago

The clinicians in the Neuroendocrine Tumor Clinical Program at City of Hope Chicago have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), sometimes known as carcinoid tumors. Our doctors work with referring physicians and their patients to help treat and manage this rare disease, which develops when abnormal growths begin to form in neuroendocrine cells. NETs are staged using diagnostics including NETSPOT, an imaging agent that helps locate somatostatin receptor-positive NETs and determine treatment options. Our cancer experts then collaborate with one another, and with the patient, as part of a multidisciplinary team, to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s individual needs.

NET treatment options

The NET Clinical Program provides patients a comprehensive array of treatment options. The type, location and extent of the disease dictate which treatments may be available.

Treatment options may include:

• Surgery options include minimally invasive procedures using laparoscopy or laparotomy, either to remove the entire tumor or to reduce its mass if it cannot be completely removed. Mesenteric resections for small bowel tumors and cytoreductive surgery may be recommended for advanced-stage disease.
• Immunotherapy treatments use the drug interferon, which helps stimulate the immune system.
• Targeted therapy drugs attack certain areas of the cancer cell or its environment (including genes and proteins) that may be responsible for the tumor’s growth.
• Chemotherapy drugs are designed to interfere with the growth of cancer cells in order to destroy them.
• Interventional radiology uses both catheter- and needle-based therapies.

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy combines a cell-targeting protein (or peptide) with a radionuclide (or radioactive material), and is given intravenously to deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumors.

Because of the complexity and diversity of NETs, our experts collaborate daily, allowing them to recommend a personalized care plan.

Depending on each patient’s unique diagnosis and needs, members of the NET care team may include surgical, medical or radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, endocrinologists, pathologists, pain management physicians, dietitians, naturopathic oncology providers, mind-body therapists and other trained clinicians.