Neuroendocrine Tumor Diagnosis

Receiving a neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis involves a series of tests. At Moffitt Cancer Center’s Gastrointestinal Oncology Program, many of the patients we see have already received a preliminary cancer diagnosis and are seeking a second opinion. Others are visiting Moffitt’s highly specialized team for their initial diagnosis. No matter the reason for the visit, our physicians will conduct a thorough examination to establish whether a neuroendocrine tumor is present.

Our highly trained team of oncologists will perform a series of diagnostic tests. Often, this process starts with a physical exam and medical history, and it may incorporate other diagnostic testing, such as:

• Endoscopic ultrasound
• Endoscopic-ultrasound-guided biopsy
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
• Computed tomography angiography
• Interventional radiology
• Cytopathology

Unlike other forms of cancer, if there is a neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis, a stage will not likely be assigned since there is no standard staging system for most types of neuroendocrine tumors. If a gastrocarcinoid tumor is detected, it will likely be described as localized (found in the appendix, colon, rectum, small intestine or stomach only), regional (spread to neighboring tissues or lymph nodes) or metastatic (spread to organs or tissues elsewhere in the body). Islet cell tumors in the pancreas are treated based on whether the tumor is in one location or in several, or if it has spread to other tissues or organs in the body.

Moffitt Cancer Center can accurately diagnose and effectively treat neuroendocrine cancers. We are the only cancer center based in Florida to have received the designation of Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute, which is a recognition of the progress we have made in developing and perfecting new diagnostic methods and treatment strategies through ongoing research and clinical trials.

No referral is required to consult with our multispecialty team, so if you’re interested in learning more about the neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis process, call 1-888-663-3488 or fill out our new patient registration form.