Diagnosing Neuroendocrine Cancer

UPMC’s Neuroendocrine Cancer Treatment Center uses the most advanced imaging and laboratory technology to accurately identify neuroendocrine cancer at its earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective. Using state-of-the-art procedures and protocols, our specialists are experts at making a definitive, early diagnosis.

Carcinoid and neuroendocrine tumors are difficult to diagnose. Symptoms can vary depending on the original location of the cancer, and a neuroendocrine cancer diagnosis is frequently determined only after the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Diagnostic tests

The UPMC Neuroendocrine Cancer Treatment Center uses a variety of diagnostic testing procedures for neuroendocrine tumors, including:

• Biopsies — a medical test involving the removal of the tumor cells or tissues for examination under a microscope in a laboratory.
• Camera capsule enteroscopy — a minimally invasive procedure that views the tumor with a camera.
• Computed tomography scans — also known as CT scans.
• Endoscopy — another way diagnosticians can view the tumor with the aid of a camera.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans — a medical imaging technique to view the tumor without the use of radiation.
• Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) imaging — a noninvasive procedure that targets the tumor and allows precise diagnosis.