[Neuroendocrine tumors : Classification, clinical presentation and imaging]

Abstract

Context: Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms found in all organs. They often present with characteristic clinical syndromes due to hormone hypersecretion.

Diagnostics: In addition to hormone diagnostics molecular-genetic work-up can play an important role.

Imaging: Morphological imaging comprises ultrasound, endoscopy, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Functional imaging of NET relies on radioligands that bind to specific receptors or transporters (Ga-68-DOTATATE-PET-CT, Tc-99-tektrotyd-SPECT/CT, F‑18-DOPA-PET/CT).

Therapy: Somatostatin analogs either native or coupled to radionuclides are potent drugs for treating various neuroendocrine tumors.

Conclusion: The requirements of imaging are determined by clinical presentation, laboratory findings, tumor stage, the presence of a tumor syndrome and the need of a personalized systemic treatment modality.

Keywords: Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors; Imaging; Medullary thyroid cancer; Pheochromocytoma; Pituitary adenoma.