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

• MiNENs of the Pancreas
• Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of the Pancreas
• Pancreatic MiNENs

What are Pancreatic Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms? (Definition/Background Information)

• Pancreatic Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (MiNENs) may be described as malignant epithelial cancers involving the pancreas, an important organ of the digestive system located in the abdomen. The tumors may arise at any location within the pancreas
• These tumors (MiNENs) contain neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine components and are diagnosed under the microscope, on examination of the cancer cells by a pathologist. The classification of the tumor is important, as it may dictate the type of treatments to be provided and the overall outcomes
• The following subtypes of Pancreatic Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms are recognized:
  • Mixed ductal-neuroendocrine carcinoma of the pancreas - it constitutes about 0.5 to 2% of all pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas
  • Mixed acinar-neuroendocrine carcinoma of the pancreas
• Pancreatic MiNENs are rare tumors and are observed in both adult men and women (age range 21 to 84 years with mean age of 68 years). The cause of formation of these tumors is presently unknown. An association with genetic syndromes have not been observed or documented
• The signs and symptoms of the tumor may include abdominal pain and discomfort, indigestion, diarrhea, and back pain. Large tumors may cause biliary tract and gastrointestinal tract obstruction. Tumor spread (metastasis) may take place to the liver and lymph nodes
• A healthcare professional decides the course of treatment, which generally involves the surgical excision of the tumor. Feasibility of surgery is the biggest (favorable) prognostic factor. However, Pancreatic Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms are typically aggressive malignancies with survival period not exceeding 3 years following initial diagnosis