Overview of Neuroendocrine Tumors

Video content above is prompted by the following:

Definition, Classification, and Diagnosis of Neuroendocrine Tumors

Panel Introduction

Expert Panelist:

• Thorvardur R. Halfdanarson, MD - Professor of Oncology and Medical Oncologist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Key Themes:

• WHO Classification System:
  • Neuroendocrine tumors are classified according to the WHO system by grade (1, 2, and 3)
  • Classification based on Ki-67 proliferative index: grade 1 (<3%), grade 2 (3%-20%), grade 3 (>20%)
  • Grade 3 has 2 subtypes: well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma
• Diagnostic Methods:
  • Most commonly diagnosed through imaging
  • Many well-differentiated tumors are discovered incidentally during imaging for unrelated conditions
  • Some present with functional syndromes (eg, carcinoid syndrome with flushing and diarrhea)
• Common Locations:
  • 70% to 80% occur in the small bowel, lungs, and pancreas
  • Can occur throughout the gastrointestinal tract from esophagus to rectum
  • Some extraintestinal, extrathoracic locations include larynx, gallbladder, and gynecologic organs

Notable Insights:

Dr. Halfdanarson noted an increasing trend of incidental discovery, sharing a recent case where a patient being treated for kidney stones was found to have a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor.