Systemic Therapies for Metastatic Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

Abstract

Over the years, there have been significant advances in systemic treatments for metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (panNETs). Despite these advancements, uncertainty remains regarding how to best sequence available therapies. For well-differentiated and metastatic panNETs that are somatostatin receptor (SSTR) avid on functional imaging, first-line therapy typically consists of somatostatin analogs (SSAs), given their favorable toxicity profile and overall low burden for patients. When progression of disease is observed on an SSA, multiple treatment options are available, including the targeted agents everolimus and sunitinib, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), as well as chemotherapy, with the latter often preferred for those panNETs of heavy tumor burden, higher grade, and/or more aggressive behavior clinically and/or radiographically. Here, we review panNET classification, currently available systemic treatments, therapy sequencing, and areas of active investigation to further our treatments for the disease.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; PRRT; Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (panNETs); Somatostatin analogs (SSAs); Targeted agents.