The endocrine system is made of nerves and gland cells that make and send hormones throughout the body. Neuroendocrine and endocrine neoplasia occurs when those cells grow out of control and can lead to rare conditions, including the full range of hypothalamic, pituitary, adrenal and islet cell tumors.
Neuroendocrine 101: How cells become tumors
Let’s break down what it means when we talk about neuroendocrine cells:
- “Neuro” refers to how your body receives signals from your nervous system.
- “Endocrine” ties back to your endocrine system, which creates your hormones.
Your endocrine system is made of glands and organs that keep our bodies functioning normally, like our growth and development, metabolism and even emotions. While rare, neuroendocrine cells can develop neoplasia (new, abnormal tissue growth or tumors). These tumors can have a ripple effect on other conditions.
You can feel confident knowing our team has earned a national reputation for treating these tumors thanks to our duo of clinical care and pioneering research.
Conditions
We diagnose and treat problems with the hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal glands and neuroendocrine tumors in different parts of the body. These conditions include:
Pheochromocytoma + Paraganglioma
These unusual tumors come from special cells that help control blood pressure. They can cause your body to produce too much of a hormone called adrenaline. We work closely with our partners in surgery, pathology, genetics and radiology to treat and remove them.
Pituitary disorders
When your pituitary gland isn't working correctly, it can cause issues in your body, like growth problems, hormone imbalances and vision changes. Your wellness team may include experts from neurosurgery, radiology, pathology and radiation oncology who will work together to help get your body's control center back on track.
Treatments
Your treatment plan depends on the type of tumor you have, how quickly it's growing and your overall health. We use the most advanced treatments and medical technologies available, including:
- Endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery
- Gamma Knife surgery
- Laparoscopic adrenal surgery
- Medications
- Radiopharmaceutical theranostic therapy
If you require surgery, many options include minimally invasive techniques, like laparoscopic or endoscopic procedures, that bring less pain and a quicker recovery time than traditional, open surgery.
As you move through treatment, our doctors will determine whether your tumors are from an inherited disease. If our doctors pinpoint that your condition is genetic, we can extend care to your family, too. This could include genetic counseling, testing and treatment.
From regular office visits to inpatient stays, find the healthcare you need and deserve close to home.
Meet the doctors and care team devoted to supporting you every step of the way along your path to better health.