What to expect
Every NET is different and many patients are presented with a confusing picture of NETs. NETs are an unusual type of cancer, so many doctors may not have seen a patient with NET before and may not know how to manage this type of cancer. This can be a challenging time. You may feel uncomfortable asking for a second opinion from a NET specialist. However, doctors are usually aware that deciding on a clinically suitable treatment plan may require the input from other healthcare professionals.
NET care is patient-specific and varies according to the patient’s medical history and type of NET. Patients with NET should have access to a specialized multidisciplinary team, made up of specialists who work together to manage NET treatment (see figure). Several studies have demonstrated that long-term outcomes improve when patients with NET are treated by multidisciplinary teams.1 Moreover, international guidelines recommend patients seek treatment by NET-dedicated multidisciplinary teams, even if specialized centers are not the most convenient or the closest to their homes.
