Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the endometrium: a report and review of the literature

Abstract

Large-cell neuroendocrine tumor of the endometrium is a rare tumor type which is difficult to diagnose. Our routine tissue sampling is often non-productive and these tumors can be mistaken for other poorly differentiated carcinomas. Sites of metastatic disease sometimes confuse the identification of the primary organ, and histological diagnosis requires a choice of neuroendocrine biomarkers. In addition, there are no published diagnostic criteria for LCNEC of the endometrium and diagnostic criteria must be translated from the WHO classification of tumors of the lung. Once a diagnosis is reached, there are no large series to direct treatment. Consensus opinion appears to favor surgery for early stage disease followed by chemotherapy with etoposide and platinum-based agents. While there are many hurdles to overcome, the proper diagnosis of LCNEC of the endometrium is of utmost importance in a disease characterized by rapid progression and poor prognosis. We examine a case of large cell neuroendocrine tumor of the endometrium with rapid progression over a period of two months which precluded her planned chemotherapy. Keywords: Neuroendocrine, Large Cell, LCNEC, Endometrial, Chemotherapy