Neuroendocrine Tumors Treatment in Malaysia
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What are Neuroendocrine Tumours?
Cancers known as neuroendocrine tumours start in specialised cells known as neuroendocrine cells. Neuroendocrine cells have characteristics of both hormone-producing and nerve cells.
Although they are uncommon, neuroendocrine tumours can develop anywhere in the body. Most neuroendocrine tumours develop in the pancreas, rectum, small intestine, appendix, and lungs.
Neuroendocrine tumours come in a variety of forms. Some grow very swiftly, while others grow slowly. Excess hormones are produced by certain neuroendocrine tumours (functional neuroendocrine tumours). Nonfunctional neuroendocrine tumours either don't release hormones at all or don't release enough to produce symptoms.
Types of Neuroendocrine Tumours
NETs are characterised according to their origin and whether they are operational (producing hormones) or non-functioning. They can arise in different organs. The following are a few typical NET types:
The term "gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumours" (GI NETs) refers to tumours that develop in the stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum.
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNETs) can be either non-functional or functioning, producing hormones such as glucagon or insulin.
Thyroid neuroendocrine tumours are rare growths in the thyroid gland, including medullary thyroid cancer, which begins in the thyroid's calcitonin-producing C-cells.
Adrenal neuroendocrine tumours occur in the adrenal glands, which sit above the kidneys and generate the chemicals cortisol and adrenaline.
CarcinoidTumour: One of the subtypes of neuroendocrine tumours, carcinoid tumours are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal system, particularly in the small intestine, appendix, and rectum. Some cancers produce or do not produce hormones.
What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?
Early treatment of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) is essential for enhancing patient outcomes. Early intervention and detection can prevent the tumour from spreading or becoming more malignant. NETs may develop slowly, and symptoms do not usually appear until the tumour has progressed, so early diagnosis is vital. Early treatment of NETs gives the best hope of successful surgery, possibly removing the tumour before it metastasises.
Moreover, early intervention can control hormone-related symptoms and avoid complications such as hormone overproduction, enhancing the patient's quality of life. Because NETs exhibit a wide range of behaviours, early treatment also ensures a more specific treatment modality, enhancing overall prognosis.
What are the Common Symptoms of Neuroendocrine Tumors?
Initial signs and symptoms are not usually present in neuroendocrine tumours. Your tumour's location and whether it produces too many hormones will determine the symptoms you might experience.
Signs and symptoms of neuroendocrine tumours generally may include:
- The discomfort caused by an expanding tumour
- A growing bulge beneath the skin that you may feel
- I'm feeling quite exhausted.
- Losing weight without making an effort
Excessive hormone production by neuroendocrine tumours (functional tumours) may result in:
- Flushing of the skin
- Vomiting
- Regular urination
- Dizziness and increased thirst
- shakiness
- A rash on the skin
Causes and Risk Factors of Neuroendocrine Tumours
Causes
- Although the exact causes of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) remain unknown, genetic abnormalities, such as those found in von Hippel-Lindau disease and Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN), can raise the risk.
- Environmental variables and chronic illnesses, including gastritis, hormone imbalances, and family history, may all play a role. Random genetic alterations in neuroendocrine cells are frequently the cause of NET development.
Risk Factors
- Genetic Conditions
- Family History
- Age
- Gender
- Chronic Conditions
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Neuroendocrine Tumours in Malaysia
In Malaysia, Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) has been found to be an encouraging treatment for metastatic neuroendocrine tumours (NETS). In a retrospective analysis of 73 treated patients, there was evidence of a 47% objective response rate and an 83% disease control rate. The treatment was tolerated well, with few severe adverse effects; interestingly, there was no renal toxicity even among patients with chronic kidney disease.
Treatment options for Neuroendocrine Tumors
Surgery: The tumour is surgically removed. Surgeons attempt to take out as much of the surrounding healthy tissue as possible, along with the entire tumour. Remove as much of the tumour as possible if complete removal is impossible.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to destroy tumour cells. It may be taken orally or injected into an arm vein. If your neuroendocrine tumour recurs after surgery, chemotherapy is recommended. It can also help cancers that are too advanced to remove with surgery.
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Targeted Therapy: Targeted medication therapies concentrate on particular abnormalities in tumour cells. Targeted pharmacological treatments can potentially kill tumour cells by preventing these aberrations. Chemotherapy and targeted medication therapy are typically used in conjunction with advanced neuroendocrine tumours.
Cost Start From USD 2000 - USD 10000Explore Options
Radiation Therapy: This treatment employs intense energy beams, such as protons and X-rays, to destroy tumour cells. It may be effective for certain neuroendocrine tumour types. It could be suggested in cases where surgery is not a possibility.
- Biochemical tests quantify the quantity or activity of a specific protein or enzyme in your blood or urine. They may indicate that the NET is functioning (secreting hormones).
- Imaging tests: Your doctor may order imaging tests, such as an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray, which can reveal internal malignancies. PET scans can detect cancer spread.
- Endoscopy involves removing tissue and examining tumours inside your body using a scope. A particular kind of endoscopy, such as a colonoscopy or an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, may be required, depending on the tumour's location.
- Endoscopic ultrasound: Your physician can perform an endoscopy and an imaging study to find a NET. For example, endoscopic ultrasonography can detect a neuroendocrine tumour in your pancreas.
- Biopsy: Providers perform biopsies to collect tissue or fluid samples. The sample is then scanned using a microscope to identify cancerous cells. This examination also reveals essential information about the type of NET and its degree of aggression.
MediRehab (chain of Rehab centres - Part of MediGence) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to support patients through Teleconsultations and online therapy sessions.
- Physical therapy: To help improve energy, strength, and mobility, especially after surgery or extensive treatment.
- Occupational therapy can help patients regain independence if pain or fatigue affects their daily routine.
- Depending on the situation, your healthcare professional may prescribe medicine to help control your symptoms and support the treatment plan.
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Hospitals for Neuroendocrine Tumors in Malaysia
Sunway Medical Centre
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Sunway Medical Centre has initiated a comprehensive expansion plan close to its current hospital facility to enhance its ability to provide services to the global market. The new Cancer Radiosurgery Center and Nuclear Medicine Center, which will also house additional Centers of Excellence like the Digestive Health Center and Dialysis Center, marked the completion of Tower C's first phase in October 2016.
Prince Court Medical Centre
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Prince Court is a private medical facility in the center of Kuala Lumpur that has 277 individual beds. Our dedication is to provide you with the best treatment possible from the time you arrive until you depart, healthier and happier. We are well-known for our top-notch facilities, cutting-edge technology, and friendly customer service.
Subang Jaya Medical Centre
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Subang Jaya Medical Center is renowned for pioneering radiation oncology treatments and infrastructure in Malaysia. The hospital also has a state-of-the-art Cancer Radiosurgery Centre (CRC), which is fully furnished with the latest medical technology for cancer detection, monitoring, and treatment.
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Why Choose Malaysia for Neuroendocrine Tumour Treatment?
Malaysia is suitable for treating neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) due to its skilled oncologists, advanced medical technology, and affordable healthcare. The country offers various therapeutic options, including peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), targeted drugs, chemotherapy, and surgery. Many hospitals in Malaysia are equipped with multidisciplinary treatment and international accreditation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) can be benign or malignant, depending on their rate of growth and metastasis. Because benign NETs grow very slowly, they are noncancerous and never metastasise to other body regions. They often only require surgical removal. However, malignant NETs grow more aggressively, are carcinogenic, and potentially metastasise to other organs, requiring more aggressive treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, or other therapies.
Yes, neuroendocrine tumours (NETs), particularly malignant ones, can migrate to other areas of the body. This process is called metastasis. The liver, lungs, bones, and lymph nodes are familiar places for spreading NETs. The tumour's size, grade, and whether it is malignant or benign all affect its tendency to spread.
Somatostatin therapy uses synthetic forms of somatostatin, a hormone that usually regulates the secretion of several other hormones, to treat neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). Somatostatin analogues suppress the tumours' secretion of excessive hormones, reducing symptoms like flushing, diarrhoea, and other side effects. By binding to specific receptors on NET cells, these treatments also reduce tumour activity and, in some cases, reduce the size of the tumours, slowing their development.
The prognosis of a neuroendocrine tumour (NET) depends on tumour grade (its rate of growth), stage (whether it has spread), site, and hormone production. The prognosis is typically worse for high-grade tumours and those that have spread. Factors related to the patient, including overall health, age, and response to treatment, also impact the prognosis.
Surgical removal of tumours, if possible, chemotherapy or targeted therapy for more severe cases, and medications such as somatostatin analogues to treat hormone-related symptoms are all involved with treating the symptoms of a neuroendocrine tumour (NET). To improve overall comfort, symptoms might also be treated with painkillers, antidiarrheals, and changes in diet. Symptom treatment and quality of life can be enhanced with an individualised treatment plan developed with input from a medical team.
Yes, you can get a second opinion on Neuroendocrine tumour treatment in Malaysia through MediGence. With MediGence, you can connect with highly experienced professionals from top Malaysian hospitals who can provide additional information regarding your diagnosis and treatment options. The platform facilitates easy access to professional help so you can make informed healthcare choices and receive the best care possible.
For localised NETS, surgery is a typical therapy to stop the tumour from growing further. The feasibility of surgery depends on the tumour's size, location, and involvement of other organs.
To find a certified cancer specialist, search MediGence’s website, which offers a list of top-class and internationally trained oncologists from the best hospitals in Malaysia. Through MediGence, you can search the profiles of specialists, check their credentials, reviews, and experience, and book online consultations. To get the best care for your condition, the website also assists you in finding the best hospitals and provides personalised assistance for your health requirements.