Biomarkers in neuroendocrine neoplasms

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Endocrinology
• Pathology

Background:

• Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are rare, heterogeneous tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells.
• NENs predominantly occur in the gastrointestinal tract and can be classified as functioning or non-functioning based on hormone secretion.
• Non-functioning NENs, comprising ~85% of cases, often present at advanced stages due to a lack of specific symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs).
• To discuss the classification, clinical presentation, and diagnostic markers of NENs.
• To highlight the importance of general biomarkers in NEN management.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on neuroendocrine neoplasms.
• Classification of NENs based on function and origin.
• Identification of key diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.

Main Results:

• NENs exhibit diverse morphology, immunophenotype, and molecular profiles.
• Functioning NENs cause symptoms related to hormone hypersecretion (e.g., carcinoid tumors secreting serotonin).
• General biomarkers including chromogranin A (CgA), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and 5-hydroxyindolic acetic acid (5-HIAA) are crucial for diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Neuroendocrine neoplasms are a complex group of rare tumors with varied clinical behaviors.
• Understanding the distinction between functioning and non-functioning NENs is critical for diagnosis and treatment.
• General biomarkers play a vital role in the comprehensive management of patients with NENs.