What is a Carcinoid tumor?
The neuroendocrine system is comprised of cells that are spread throughout several organ systems, including the lungs and digestive system. They are called neuroendocrine cells because they have characteristics of both nerve and endocrine cells. Nerve cells use electrical impulses to transmit signals. Endocrine cells, such as the thyroid and pancreas, make up glands that secrete hormones, such as thyroid hormone and insulin, which can be used to communicate with other organs. Tumors of the neuroendocrine system account for about 2% of all cancers and can be classified as either pancreatic endocrine tumors or carcinoid tumors. Approximately 12,000 cases of carcinoid tumor are diagnosed a year. They most commonly arise in the gastrointestinal system (esophagus, stomach, intestines) and are thought to regulate digestion by controlling digestive enzyme release and intestinal motility. About 30% of carcinoid tumors arise in the lungs. Because carcinoid tumors originate from hormone producin
