Diagnosing NETs often requires a combination of imaging studies, laboratory testing, and tissue analysis.
Diagnostic tests may include:
Medical History and Physical Examination
Your care team will review your symptoms, medical history, and family history.
Blood and Urine Tests
Laboratory tests can help identify hormone levels and tumor markers associated with neuroendocrine tumors.
Imaging Studies
Advanced imaging techniques may include:
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- PET/CT imaging
Specialized molecular imaging studies
These tests help determine the location and extent of the disease.
Endoscopy
For tumors involving the gastrointestinal tract, an endoscopic procedure may allow physicians to view and biopsy suspicious areas.
Biopsy
A biopsy removes a small sample of tissue for examination by a pathologist. This is often the most definitive way to diagnose a neuroendocrine tumor and determine its grade.
