Topographic Distribution and Management of Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Digestive Tube

Abstract

Introduction: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a group of neoplasms that originate from enterochromaffin cells, especially located in the digestive tract. The objective of the present study is to write the topographic distribution, the multidisciplinary management and pathological diagnosis according to the WHO of the neuroendocrine tumors of the digestive tract.

Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective study of the cases with a confirmed anatomopathological diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumor located in the digestive tract between January 2011 to December 2018 at the National Oncology Institute of Ecuador- SOLCA of Guayaquil. The topography and type of treatment established with frequencies and percentages are described.

Results: 21 cases were entered into the study. The most frequent location was the cecal appendix n = 8 (38%), stomach n = 4 (19%), small intestine n = 3 (14%). The pathological diagnosis in stage G1 (65%); G2 (24%) and G3 (12%). The first line of treatment was surgery with curative intent n = 19 (90.5%) and endoscopic treatment n = 2 (9.5%). Patients undergoing surgery, n = 16/19; (84%) obtained resection levels 0 (R0) and remained under clinical observation, the other subjects in the study received adjuvant treatment with somatostatin alone n = 1 (4.8%) or combination of somatostatin and radiotherapy n = 2 (9.5%).

Conclusion: The diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumor of the digestive tract is a rare oncological etiology. The surgical treatment in this series of cases is focused on a surgical action of a surgical type.