Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high energy rays similar to x-rays to kill neuroendocrine tumour (NET) cells. You might have it for a NET that can’t be removed or that has spread to other parts of the body and is causing symptoms. 

You might have internal radiotherapy or external radiotherapy. Some types of internal radiotherapy are called radionuclide therapy or radio labelled treatment.

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT)

PRRT is a type of internal radiotherapy. It is also called radioligand therapy. It uses a radioactive substance attached to a man made form of the hormone somatostatin to kill NET cells.

Radioactive iodine MIBG (131 I-MIBG)

131 I-MIBG is a type of internal radiotherapy. It uses radioactive iodine attached to a substance called MIBG to kill the NET cells.

External radiotherapy

External radiotherapy uses high energy rays to kill NET cells. You might have it to help with symptoms such as pain.

Last reviewed: 
19 Mar 2021
Next review due: 
19 Mar 2024
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