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Recent advances in systemic therapy for gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors
1Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44195, USA.
Abstract:
Neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract are rare tumors which can be classified as amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation tumors (APU-Domas). Although the majority of clinically apparent tumors are malignant, they are frequently slow growing. Despite this characteristic, they may generate disabling hormonal syndromes requiring aggressive treatment to achieve palliation. Recent advances in understanding the pathophysiology of these tumors has led to better medical therapy with chemotherapeutic agents, somatostatin analogues, and biologic therapies. This review will update the recent efforts in systemic therapies of the gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors.
Insights
Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors (GI-NETs), though rare and slow-growing, can cause severe hormonal issues. Recent advances offer improved systemic therapies, including chemotherapy, somatostatin analogues, and biologics, for better palliation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract (GI-NETs) are rare.
- APUDomas are a classification of these tumors.
- Many GI-NETs are malignant and slow-growing, but can cause disabling hormonal syndromes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in systemic therapies for GI-NETs.
- To provide an update on current treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on GI-NET systemic therapies.
- Analysis of current therapeutic approaches including chemotherapy, somatostatin analogues, and biologics.
Main Results:
- Understanding of GI-NET pathophysiology has improved.
- Newer medical therapies have emerged.
- Effective palliative treatments are available.
Conclusions:
- Systemic therapies for GI-NETs have advanced significantly.
- Chemotherapy, somatostatin analogues, and biologics are key treatment options.
- Aggressive treatment can achieve palliation for hormonal syndromes.