Somatostatinoma
Somatostatinomas are rare neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) that make the hormone somatostatin. Most somatostatinomas start in the pancreas and the small bowel (duodenum).
They are a type of functioning NET of the pancreas.
What are somatostatinomas?
Somatostatinomas are rare NETs that start in neuroendocrine cells that make the hormone somatostatin.
Symptoms of somatostatinoma
Symptoms of somatostatinoma include high blood sugar levels (diabetes), tummy pain and diarrhoea.
Diagnosing somatostatinoma
You have some tests to diagnose a somatostatinoma. This might include blood tests and an endoscopy.
Stages and grades of pancreatic NETs
The stage and grade of a pancreatic NET helps your doctor decide which treatment you need.
Treatment for Somatostatinoma
The treatment you have depends on a number of things such as where the somatostatinoma is, its size and whether it has spread.
Research and clinical trials for pancreatic NETs
Researchers are looking at improving the diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of people with pancreatic NETs.
Follow up for somatostatinoma
You have follow up appointments to check how you are and see if you have any problems or worries.
Risks and causes of pancreatic NETs
There are some factors that increase your risk of developing a pancreatic NET. This includes some medical conditions.
Living with NETs
Get practical and emotional support to help you cope with a neuroendocrine tumour.
Survival for somatostatinoma
Survival for somatostatinoma depends on different factors. So no one can tell you exactly how long you will live.