Treatment of Poorly Differentiated Gastric Neuroendocrine Carcinoma (NEC)
Gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms are not all treated alike. The critical distinction lies in differentiation grade: poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) follows a distinct clinical pathway from well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs).
Clinical Scenario
Poorly differentiated gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) of the gastrointestinal tract — specifically not a well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor. This classification, established by the WHO Classification of Digestive System Tumors, determines both prognosis and the appropriate treatment strategy.
Treatment Approach — partial overview
When the disease extent permits, a surgical approach is a key component of management, followed by additional systemic therapy aimed at reducing recurrence risk. The complete protocol — including sequencing, regimen selection, and specific criteria — is available via the link below.
References
- The WHO Classification of Endocrine Organs (2017) and Digestive System (2019) categorizes NENs as well-differentiated NENs (termed "NETs") or poorly differentiated NECs.
- For NECs, resection is indicated when feasible, and adjuvant chemotherapy can be used to prevent recurrence after surgery.
DOI: 10.1007/s00535-021-01827-7
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