Molecular Diagnostics in the Neoplasms of Small Intestine and Appendix: 2018 Update

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Neoplasms of the small intestine are significantly less common than colorectal tumors.
• Key small intestine tumor types include adenocarcinomas, well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and lymphoma.
• Primary appendiceal neoplasms are rare, occurring in less than 2% of appendectomy specimens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role and advancements in molecular diagnostics for neoplasms of the small intestine and appendix.
• To provide an overview of the molecular landscape of these rare gastrointestinal tumors.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on molecular diagnostics in small intestine and appendiceal neoplasms.
• Analysis of common and rare tumor types and their associated molecular alterations.

Main Results:

• Small intestine neoplasms encompass a range of histological types with distinct molecular profiles.
• Appendiceal neoplasms, though rare, also present unique molecular characteristics.
• Molecular diagnostics are crucial for accurate classification and targeted therapy in these tumors.

Conclusions:

• Molecular diagnostics are essential for understanding the pathogenesis and guiding treatment of small intestine and appendix neoplasms.
• Further research into the molecular intricacies of these rare tumors may lead to improved patient outcomes.