Spotlight on Cushing’s Syndrome in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Spotlight on Cushing’s Syndrome in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Intro Cushing’s syndrome is one of the most challenging hormonal complications seen in people with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). It can be subtle, severe, or even life‑threatening — and it is often misunderstood. Many patients struggle for months or years before receiving a correct diagnosis, partly because the symptoms overlap with everyday conditions such as weight gain, diabetes, hypertension, fatigue, and mood changes. This Spotlight aims to bring clarity. It explains what Cushing’s syndrome is, how it relates to NETs, why ectopic ACTH matters, and what recent evidence tells us about the tumours most likely to cause it. As always, the…
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Genetics and Neuroendocrine Tumours

Genetics and Neuroendocrine Tumours

Hereditary genetics.....where to focus In recent years, it has become increasingly apparent that a number of Neuroendocrine tumours arise as a result of germline genetic mutations and are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. The number of genes implicated is increasing as research advances and I cannot guarantee this post will contain all of them. Apparently, 5-10% of NETs are estimated to have a hereditary background. Hereditary syndromes associated with these include Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN), Von Hippel Lindau (VHL), Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), Tuberous Sclerosis (TS) and others. People who have a genetic condition may present with the tumours…
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