Apudoma

Definition

Definition of Apudoma
An apudoma is any endocrine tumor that arises from an APUD cell (APUD, meaning amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation) properties. These cells, which are derived from neural crest cells, are from structures such as the prostate, pancreas and ampulla of Vater. First identified in 1975, Apudoma is a very general term. As such, most doctors and scientists prefer to use a more specific term when possible, such as apudoma of gall bladder.

Clinical Features: "Structurally, apudoma tumors often display electron-dense granules, which produce multiple regulatory amines and hormones, chromogranin A or C, synaptophysine and neuron-specific enolase. Amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation cells are known to give rise to islet cell tumors of the pancreas, medullary carcinomas of the thyroid, phaeochromocytomas, melanomas and carcinoid tumors. As such, symptoms and histology of pancreatic islet cell tumors and apudoma have striking similarities."

Symptoms

Symptoms of Apudoma
The list of signs and symptoms for APUDoma listed below:

1. Symptoms may vary considerable depending on the location of the tumor
2. Endocrine anomalies

Causes

Causes of Apudoma
Causes of Broader Categories of APUDoma:

1. Endocrine system conditions
2. Endocrine system tumors
3. Cancer

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Apudoma
These home medical tests may be relevant to APUDoma:

Colon & Rectal Cancer: Home Testing
Home Colorectal Cancer Tests
Home Fecal Occult Bleeding Tests

Cancer-Related Home Testing

Treatment

Treatment of Apudoma
Consult with your doctor.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Apudoma

Prevention

Prevention of Apudoma
Consult with your doctor.