Imaging of Neuroendocrine Tumors: Indications, Interpretations, Limits, and Pitfalls

Abstract

Imaging is critical in the diagnosis, prognosis, and management of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). NETs share common imaging features, but each type exhibits unique features. Computed tomography scans or MRI of the abdomen is used to assess tumor burden routinely. Functional imaging with octreotide scan or gallium-68 somatostatin analog PET is used selectively to confirm diagnosis and guide therapy. Clinicians and radiologists should be familiar with the indications and interpretations of imaging modalities. Novel functional imaging modalities likely will be developed to detect small NETs, predict prognosis, guide therapeutic choices, and design novel therapies.

Keywords: Anatomic imaging; CT; Functional imaging; Gallium-68 somatostatin analog PET; MRI; Neuroendocrine tumor; Octreotide scan.