Episode 37: Supportive Oncology for Neuroendocrine Cancer

In this episode, medical oncologist Dr. Chandrikha Chandrasekharan from MD Anderson Cancer Center breaks down how treatment decisions are made and sequenced for patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). The conversation explores what “benign” and “indolent” really mean, how treatment goals are defined, and how clinicians balance effectiveness, side effects, and long-term strategy. Dr. Chandrasekharan discusses sequencing therapies without burning bridges, when treatments can be reused, h...

Since its FDA approval on March 26, 2025, cabozantinib has emerged as the newest treatment option for neuroendocrine tumors (NET) patients—adding another valuable tool to the treatment toolbox. It’s become a hot topic in support groups and forums, with many patients wondering what to expect. In this episode, Fox Chase Cancer Center medical oncologist Dr. Namrata (“Neena”) Vijayvergia answers the most frequently asked questions about cabozantinib. She explains how it works, how it differs from...

In this episode, surgical oncologist Dr. Seth Concors of Emory’s Winship Cancer Institute discusses the role of the surgical oncologist within the multidisciplinary care team for neuroendocrine cancer. We explore what surgical oncologists do, why NET-specific experience matters, how surgical decisions are made, and what patients can expect during a surgical consultation. The conversation highlights coordination across care teams, common patient concerns, and the importance of informed decisio...

ABOUT THIS EPISODE Who is a genetic counselor, and who should see one? How do they fit into the neuroendocrine cancer care team? In this episode, Samantha Greenberg, PhD, MS, MPH, CGC, Director of the UT Southwestern Genetic Counseling Program, demystifies genetic counseling and testing for NET patients and their families. She explains what to expect before, during, and after a consultation—and how results can impact care, family members, and future planning. TOP TEN QUESTIONS Role & Trai...

ABOUT THIS EPISODE In this special annual episode, OHSU medical oncologist Dr. Guillaume (“Will”) Pegna joins us once again to break down the highlights from the 2025 North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS) Multidisciplinary NET Medical Symposium. He walks us through the latest clinical trial results and emerging research—covering PRRT, non-PRRT therapies, liver-directed treatments, and new biomarkers—and explains what these updates mean for the NET patient and caregiver communit...