Multimodality management, recurrence patterns, and long-term outcome of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine...

Many advances in the management of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) happened in the last two decades. This study highlights the progress in its management over 17 years, outcomes, recurrence patterns, and follow up protocols.

This retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database at a single tertiary center included GEP-NEN patients from January 2001 to August 2017. Management protocols were based on European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society guidelines. Recurrences were categorized as follows: localized nodal, regional, distant hepatic, or combined. Patients were divided into cohorts: cohort 1 (2001-2006), cohort 2 (2007-2011), and cohort 3 (2012-2017). Survival patterns were analyzed.

One hundred and ninety-two patients were included with 98 (51.04%) grade (G) 1, 64 (33.34%) G2, and 30 (15.63%) G3. One hundred and four (54.16%) underwent curative surgery (58 G1, 27 G2, and 19 G3). Overall follow up ranged from 3 to 276 months; 39 were lost to follow up. Ninety-six patients had recurrences: 44 regional + distant and 40 liver-limited recurrences. One-, 3-, and 5-year survivals show significant differences among different treatment groups (p < 0.05). Significant increase in curative resections, chemotherapy utilization, and reduced recurrences were noted in cohort 3. Curative (R0) resection offered 1- and 3-year overall survival of 93.3% and 66.7% in cohort 1; 95.8% and 83.1% in cohort 2; and 100% and 92.9% in cohort 3.

Curative resection is the most significant factor for improved survival. Debulking surgerical procedure have a role whereas upfront peptide receptor radionuclide therapy is questionable. Chemotherapy improves overall survival in inoperable/metastatic setting. Recurrence patterns indicate that a long-term follow up greater than 10 years is necessary.