About neuroendocrine tumours (NETs)

Find out about the neuroendocrine system and what neuroendocrine tumours are.

The neuroendocrine system

The neuroendocrine system is made up of nerves and gland cells. It makes hormones and releases them into the bloodstream.

Neuro means nerve and endocrine refers to the cells of the endocrine system. The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs in the body that make hormones. It is also called the hormone system.

There are neuroendocrine cells in most organs of the body, including the:

• food pipe (oesophagus)
• stomach
• lungs
• small and large bowel
• pancreas
• liver