Important Announcements

Nondiscrimination Statement Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To see our full nondiscrimination statement, click here.

Campus Construction Update

Starting September 14, we’re closing the Menino building lobby entrance. This, along with the ongoing Yawkey building entrance closure, will help us bring you an even better campus experience that matches the exceptional care you've come to expect. Please enter the Menino and Yawkey buildings through the Moakley building, and make sure to leave extra time to get to your appointment. Thank you for your patience. 

Click here to learn more about our campus redesign. 

What are gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors?

Gastrointestinal (GI) neuroendocrine tumors are a rare type of cancer that grows in the lining of the GI tract. They are also called GI carcinoid tumors. These tumors develop from neuroendocrine cells, a type of cell that makes hormones that support certain bodily functions. Neuroendocrine cells are most common in the GI tract, where they make hormones that help control digestion.  

Most GI neuroendocrine tumors begin in the small intestine, appendix, or rectum. They usually grow slowly and can produce hormones that are released into the body. In some cases, these hormones can cause symptoms. If the tumor spreads to the liver, it can cause carcinoid syndrome, a condition that causes specific symptoms and other physical problems.

What are the symptoms of gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors?

Some GI neuroendocrine tumors may not cause any symptoms. If the tumors do cause symptoms, they may include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Weight loss
  • Pain in the rectum
  • Blood in the stool

How are gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors treated?

Treatment for GI neuroendocrine tumors depends on where the tumor is located and if it has spread to other parts of the body. Treatment options may include:

  • Surgery to remove the tumor
  • Chemotherapy may be used if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body or if the tumor is causing severe symptoms
  • Radiation therapy may be used after surgery or if surgery is not an option
  • Targeted therapy to help kill cancer cells
  • Hormone therapy to help slow the growth of neuroendocrine cells

What are the risk factors for gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors?

You may be more likely to develop a GI neuroendocrine tumor if:

  • Someone in your family has neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)
  • Someone in your family has multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)
  • You have a condition that affects the amount of stomach acid your stomach makes, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or atrophic gastritis
  • A family history of tuberous sclerosis complex or von Hippel Lindau disease

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

department

Endocrine Tumor Program

Our endocrine specialists are highly trained in innovative treatments for neuroendocrine tumors, carcinoid syndrome, pancreatic cancer, and more.
department

Colon and Rectal Surgery

BMC's colorectal surgeons offer cutting-edge surgical treatments for conditions that affect the colon, rectum, and anus, in coordinating with other specialists.