Therapy Sequencing in Patients With Advanced Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2023 May:43:e389278. doi: 10.1200/EDBK_389278.

Abstract

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) comprise a beautifully complicated, exciting landscape of histologies and clinical behaviors. However, the nuanced complexity of low- and high-grade variants can easily overwhelm both patients and providers. In this chapter, we review the ever-expanding literature on both functioning and nonfunctioning small bowel and pancreatic NENs, touching on somatostatin analogs, hepatic-directed therapies, small molecules, radiopharmaceuticals, immunotherapy, cytotoxic chemotherapy, and new promising agents. Furthermore, we suggest some strategies to address the most challenging scenarios seen in clinical practice, including sequencing of agents, treatment of carcinoid syndrome, and options for well-differentiated high-grade disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / genetics
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / therapy
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Radiopharmaceuticals / therapeutic use
  • Somatostatin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Somatostatin
  • Radiopharmaceuticals