Neuroendocrine Tumor GI Treatment in India

Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors (GI-NETs) are rare but treatable with early intervention. India offers world-class, affordable treatment options led by top oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl. The average cost in India ranges between $5,000–$10,000, depending on stage and treatment type. In contrast, similar treatment costs $35,000–$70,000 in the USA, and $15,000–$25,000 in Thailand, making India a cost-effective choice for global patients.

What is a gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumor (GI-NET)?

GI-NETs are rare cancers that originate from neuroendocrine cells within the gastrointestinal tract. These cells have characteristics of both nerve and hormone-producing cells. GI-NETs are slow-growing tumors but can become aggressive if left untreated.

Where do GI-NETs typically occur?

• They commonly develop in:
• Small intestine
• Rectum
• Appendix
• Stomach
• Colon
• Pancreas (in some cases, considered gastroenteropancreatic NETs)

What Are the Types of GI-NETs?

Are there different classifications of GI neuroendocrine tumors?
Yes, based on location and cell type:

• Carcinoid Tumors: Most common type, often found in the small intestine or rectum.
• Gastrinomas, Insulinomas, VIPomas, Somatostatinomas: Pancreatic NETs affecting hormone levels.
• High-Grade Neuroendocrine Carcinomas (NECs): Aggressive and fast-growing tumors.

Grading is also important:

Grade 1 (low-grade): Slow-growing

Grade 2 (intermediate): Moderately growing.

Grade 3 (high-grade): Fast-growing and aggressive.

What signs might indicate a GI neuroendocrine tumor?
Symptoms vary by tumor type and hormone secretion, but common ones include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Weight loss
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Flushing (in hormonally active tumors)
• Fatigue and nausea

What diagnostic tests are performed in India for GI-NETs?
Top cancer hospitals in India follow international protocols. Diagnostic tests include:

• Blood and urine tests: Chromogranin A (CgA), 5-HIAA
• Imaging: CT, MRI, PET-CT (including Gallium-68 PET)
• Endoscopy & Colonoscopy
• Biopsy with immunohistochemistry
• Genetic tests (if familial risk suspected)

How is treatment planned for foreign patients in India?
Treatment is customized based on the tumor's location, grade, and spread. The process includes:

1. Consultation and Evaluation

• Teleconsultation with oncologist (often Dr. Ankur Bahl for international patients)
• Review of reports/scans sent via email
• Physical evaluation upon arrival

2. Multimodal Treatment Plan

Surgical Treatment:

• Laparoscopic Resection
• Whipple Procedure (for pancreatic NETs)
• Bowel Resection or Appendectomy

Non-surgical Treatments:

• Somatostatin analogs (Octreotide, Lanreotide)
• Targeted Therapy (Sunitinib, Everolimus)
• Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT)
• Chemotherapy (for high-grade NECs)
• Radiotherapy (if metastases)

3. Post-Treatment Care & Monitoring

• Periodic follow-ups every 3–6 months
• Hormonal monitoring
• Repeat imaging for recurrence

What makes India a top destination for neuroendocrine tumor care?

• Affordability: World-class care at 1/4th the global cost
• Top Oncologists: Doctors like Dr. Ankur Bahl, a GI cancer and NET specialist
• JCI/NABH Accredited Hospitals: Global standards maintained
• Advanced Technology: PET-CT, PRRT, Robotic Surgery
• Short Waiting Times: Immediate scheduling
• Multilingual Support: Arabic, French, Russian, Swahili, and more
• Complete Medical Tourism Services: Visa, accommodation, interpreters, airport pickup

What is Dr. Ankur Bahl’s expertise in NETs?
Dr. Ankur Bahl is a senior medical oncologist at leading Indian hospitals (like Fortis and Max) specializing in GI cancers and neuroendocrine tumors. He is known for:

• 20+ years of experience
• Personalized patient care approach
• Expertise in PRRT, targeted therapy, and high-grade tumor management
• International patient care and coordination

What advanced devices support GI-NET treatment?

• Gallium-68 DOTATATE PET-CT Scanner
• Linear Accelerators (LINAC) for Radiation
• Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
• Gamma Cameras for PRRT
• Histopathology with AI-enabled diagnostics

What is the typical cost range?

Costs vary by hospital, city, and patient condition.

How Does the Cost Compare to Other Countries?

India offers up to 70–80% savings, especially beneficial for patients without insurance.

How long do I need to stay in India for treatment?

Why consider PRRT for NETs in India?

• Highly effective for inoperable or metastatic NETs
• Available at top nuclear medicine centers
• Lower cost: $4,000–$6,500 per session (vs $20,000 in the West)
• Minimal side effects
• Outpatient procedure in most cases

What facilities can foreign patients expect?

• International patient lounges
• Dedicated care coordinators
• Language translators
• Airport transfers & visa assistance
• Local SIM, currency exchange, and food preferences (Halal, vegan, etc.)

Why India Is Your Best Option for GI Neuroendocrine Tumor Treatment?

India offers the perfect blend of cost-effectiveness, advanced technology, and compassionate care for patients battling neuroendocrine tumors. With world-renowned oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, global-standard hospitals, and transparent pricing, patients from the USA, UK, Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia are choosing India for their cancer care journey