Endocrine pancreas cells are also called islet cells or islets of Langerhans. Tumors that form in islet cells are called islet cell tumors, pancreatic endocrine tumors, or pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pancreatic NETs). Exocrine pancreas cells make enzymes that are released into the small intestine to help the body digest food.

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors form in hormone-making cells (islet cells) of the pancreas. Pancreatic NETs may or may not cause signs or symptoms. There are different kinds of functional pancreatic NETs. Having certain syndromes can increase the risk of pancreatic NETs. Different types of pancreatic NETs have different signs and symptoms. Lab tests and imaging tests are used to detect (find) and diagnose pancreatic NETs. Other kinds of lab tests are used to check for the specific type of pancreatic NETs. Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.