Neuroendocrine tumours of the stomach Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Neuroendocrine Tumours of The Stomach Overview NETs of the stomach, also called gastric neuroendocrine tumours, are most often found in the antrum (the lower part of the stomach). Gastric NETs are usually associated with gastritis or chronic Helicobacter pylori infection, but they can also arise in the setting of other conditions such as gastrinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN1). Types Type 1 Gastric NETs:These are the most common type and are typically benign and associated with chronic atrophic gastritis (often due to H. pylori infection).Patients with type 1 gastric NETs often have hypergastrinemia (elevated levels of the hormone gastrin) due to decreased acid secretion.They are usually small and asymptomatic but can cause anaemia or nausea if bleeding or ulceration occurs.Type 2 Gastric NETs:Type 2 NETs are associated with gastrinoma and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a condition where tumours in the pancreas or duodenum produce excess gastrin).These tumours are more likely to be malignant and require careful management.Type 3 Gastric NETs:These are sporadic and are usually more aggressive, with a higher likelihood of metastasis. These tumours are non-functional (they don't secrete hormones) and are more likely to be diagnosed when they cause bleeding or obstruction. Symptoms Abdominal pain, indigestion, or nausea.Gastric bleeding (manifesting as melena or hematemesis).Weight loss or anaemia in advanced cases.In some cases, symptoms related to gastrinoma, such as diarrhoea, may occur. Diagnosis Endoscopy: A key diagnostic tool to visualise the tumour.Biopsy: Histologic examination confirms the neuroendocrine nature of the tumour.Gastrin levels: For gastrinoma or when gastritis is suspected.Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) or PET scans: Useful for detecting metastasis. Treatment Surgical resection is the mainstay for localised tumours.Endoscopic resection (e.g., EMR) may be considered for smaller, well-differentiated tumours.In cases of gastrinoma, treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid secretion and manage symptoms is important.Somatostatin analogues (such as octreotide) can be used to control symptoms of hormone-producing tumours.