Tumors of the small intestine are rare. They are usually single, but may be multiple particularly in certain syndromes (i.e. intestinal polyposis syndrome). Tumors can be benign or malignant. Some benign tumors can progress and become malignant (i.e. adenomas, leiomyomas).
Most small intestine tumors are clinically silent for long periods. Nearly half of all benign small intestine tumors are found only incidentally either during an operation or an investigation to visualize the intestine for other reasons. Symptoms can be chronic and/or intermittent and include abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss and bleeding. The larger the tumor, the more likely the patient will experience symptoms of bowel obstruction. Tumors can also become ulcerated and bleed.