Current perspectives on neuroendocrine tumors

Abstract

Neoplasms arising from neuroendocrine cells form a heterogeneous group known as neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), which possess both endocrine and neural characteristics. These tumors can occur in various organs throughout the body, with the most prominent sites being the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and lungs. Despite their relatively low incidence, NETs have gained significant attention due to their unique biology and clinical behavior. This review intends to provide a widespread gestalt of the present perception of NETs, including their epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, classification, clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, treatment options, and prognosis. Treatment strategies for NETs depend on tumor grade, stage, location, and functional status. Surgical resection remains the pillar of curative treatment for localized disease; on the other hand, systemic therapies take account of targeted therapies like tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), somatostatin analogs, and immunotherapy have shown promising results in advanced cases. In conclusion, this review provides an up-to-date summary of our current knowledge regarding neuroendocrine tumors. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms driving tumor development and progression. This will aid in developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting specific pathways involved in NET pathogenesis to improve patient outcomes.

Keywords

• cancer
• clinical therapy
• metastasis
• endocrine