Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Gastrointestinal Tract: Latest Research

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 07/2022

ON THIS PAGE: You will read about the scientific research being done to learn more about neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract NETs) and how to treat them. Use the menu to see other pages.

Doctors are working to learn more about GI tract NETs, ways to prevent them, how to best treat them, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with this type of tumor. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Always talk with your doctor about the best diagnostic and treatment options for you.

  • New treatment approaches. Currently, many clinical trials for GI tract NETs are studying new drugs and different drug combinations. New approaches to treatment using medications include targeted therapy, as described in Types of Treatment.

  • Genetics. As described in Risk Factors, family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) may play a role in an individual’s risk for developing a GI tract NET. Researchers are investigating MEN1 to learn more about this hereditary risk factor.

  • Palliative and supportive care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current treatments for a GI tract NET to improve comfort and quality of life for patients.

Looking for More About the Latest Research?

If you would like more information about the latest areas of research in GI tract NETs, explore these related items that take you outside of this guide:

The next section in this guide is Coping with Treatment. It offers some guidance on how to cope with the physical, emotional, social, and financial changes that a GI tract NET and its treatment can bring. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.