Imaging neuroendocrine tumors: Characterizing the spectrum of radiographic findings. (June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baghdadi, Azarakhsh; Ghadimi, Maryam; Mirpour, Sahar; Hazhirkarzar, Bita; Motaghi, Mina; Pawlik, Timothy M.; Kamel, Ihab R.
• Is Part Of: Surgical oncology. Volume 37(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-06
• Subjects: Neuroendocrine tumors -- Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors -- Carcinoids -- CT -- MRI -- Functional imaging; Cancer -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Neoplasms -- surgery -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Chirurgie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.994059
• DOI: 10.1016/j.suronc.2021.101529
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-7404

Abstract

Abstract: Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are a group of neoplasms with neuroendocrine differentiation affecting a wide range of organs. Functional NETs present with symptoms due to the particular hormone produced. Functional NETs are usually small at diagnosis and therefore can be challenging to diagnose. In contrast, non-functioning NETs are generally larger and present with mass effect. Imaging plays an indispensable role in diagnosis, staging and management of patients with NETs. The optimal modality and technique for imaging of NETs depend on the location of primary and metastatic lesions. Regardless of the imaging modality, dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging is essential for evaluation of NETs. In general, CT scan is typically the primary imaging modality for evaluating NETs. MRI is used as a complementary modality, being superior to other modalities to assess liver metastasis. Nuclear medicine imaging is also widely used in NET assessment. Highlights: Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are categorized as functioning and non-functioning. CT is usually the primary modality to diagnose and stage NETs. MRI is most useful for evaluating liver metastasis and to confirm an indeterminate lesion. Pancreatic NET might have atypical features such as cystic components, calcifications, neoplastic thrombosis and diffuse involvement. Functional imaging including nuclear medicine is widely used as a complementary imaging modality.