What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Mixed Neuroendocrine Neoplasm of the Urogenital System

What is Mixed Neuroendocrine Neoplasm of the Genitourinary System? (Definition/Background Information)

• Mixed Neuroendocrine Neoplasm of the Genitourinary System is a rare high-grade tumor that is seen in the genitourinary tract; the genitourinary or urogenital system includes the urinary and genital organs
• These tumors are uncommon and histologically consists of neuroendocrine features and non-neuroendocrine component such as squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, or urothelial carcinoma
• These neoplasms can occur in a variety of anatomical locations including the kidney, urinary bladder, and prostate gland

Incidence:

• Mixed Neuroendocrine Neoplasm of the Genitourinary System is an exceedingly rare tumor
• A vast majority of cases are noted in adults
• Both males and females are affected
• All races and ethnic groups are at risk

Risk factors: The risk factors are presently unknown.

Cause:

• The cause of tumor formation is presently unknown
• Studies have shown certain genetic abnormalities in these tumors

Signs and symptoms:

• The tumors can arise in a variety of anatomical locations including the kidney, bladder, and prostate
• The signs and symptoms of the tumor depends on its location
  • Kidney tumors present with flank (back) pain and blood in urine (hematuria)
  • Tumors involving the bladder may present blood in urine
  • Tumors arising in the prostate may cause blood in urine, frequent urination, abdominal pain, and blood in semen
• The size of these tumors varies depending on the location

Diagnosis:

• Blood and urine tests
• Radiological studies
  • Ultrasound of abdomen
  • CT and MRI scan of abdomen
• Tissue biopsy of the tumor is important to arrive at a definitive diagnosis: A careful examination of the biopsy is necessary to arrive at this tumor type. Often, multiple special studies may be necessary to arrive at the diagnosis

Complications:

• Emotional stress
• Tumor metastasis to different organs and regions
• Incomplete removal resulting in tumor recurrence

Treatment:

• The staging is based on American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classification
• Treatment depends on the location and the size of the tumor
• It may require a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy

Prevention: Presently, it is not possible to prevent the formation of Mixed Neuroendocrine Neoplasm of the Genitourinary System.

Prognosis:

• The prognosis depends on the site and stage of the tumor
• Nevertheless, all mixed neuroendocrine tumors have a generally poor prognosis