Delays and routes to diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumours.
BMC Cancer
; 18(1): 1122, 2018 Nov 16.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-30445941
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Neuroendocrine tumours are uncommon tumours; there is often a long period between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis. This study aims to address the symptoms prior to diagnosis of people with known neuroendocrine tumours and also the involvement of healthcare providers prior to the diagnosis.METHODS:
A web based survey was designed to cover two broad areas of patient symptoms and healthcare interactions prior to diagnosis. This was tested and adapted by patient and clinician input prior to distribution via Survey Monkey.RESULTS:
The results demonstrated a median time from first symptom to diagnosis of 53.8 months. The most frequent initial symptoms were of pain, change in bowel habit and fatigue. 31% of respondents noted weight loss prior to diagnosis. 80% of respondents visited their GP regarding the symptoms a median of 11 times. 58% of respondents were referred to secondary care where they were seen a median 3 times. 30% presented acutely to A&E and this led to their diagnosis.CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, there is a long time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis in all types of NETs. This is despite many respondents having alarm symptoms at diagnosis. Further education and awareness regarding malignancy may help with earlier diagnosis.Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Tumores Neuroendocrinos
Tipo de estudio:
Diagnostic_studies
/
Screening_studies
Límite:
Adult
/
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
/
Middle aged
Idioma:
En
Revista:
BMC Cancer
Asunto de la revista:
NEOPLASIAS
Año:
2018
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Reino Unido