[Poorly differentiated neuroendocrine small-cell carcinoma of the gallbladder]

Abstract

Background: Neuroendocrine tumours of the gastroenteropancreatic system (GEP-NETs) are rare, in particular those of the gallbladder. Due to the limited therapeutic options, surgical resection is favoured.

Case report and methods: Described below is the case of a 69-year-old male with a lymphogenically metastasising, poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma of the gallbladder who presented with unspecific abdominal pain.

Results and clinical course: Following complete surgical resection of the tumour and the lymph node metastases he developed a recurrence 6 weeks post-operatively. The recurrence was treated with chemotherapy. Re-staging after three courses, however, showed further tumour progression. Prior to the start of a second-line treatment the patient died 13 weeks after surgery.

Conclusions: This case demonstrates the complexity of this rare disease with diagnosis in advanced tumour stage and poor prognosis.