Role of Radioembolization in Metastatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol. 2022 Nov;45(11):1590-1598. doi: 10.1007/s00270-022-03206-y. Epub 2022 Aug 2.

Abstract

The liver is the most common site of metastasis for neuroendocrine tumors originating from the gastrointestinal tract. Neuroendocrine liver metastases (NELMs) portend a worsening clinical course, making local management important. Local treatment options include surgery, thermal ablation, and trans-catheter intra-arterial therapies, such as radioembolization. Radioembolization is generally preferred over other embolotherapies in patients with colonized biliary systems. Current best practice involves personalized treatment planning, optimizing tumor radiation absorbed dose and minimizing radiation to the normal hepatic parenchyma. As part of a multidisciplinary approach, radioembolization is a versatile embolotherapy offering neoadjuvant, palliative, and ablative treatment options for patients with NELMs.

Keywords: Neuroendocrine liver metastases (NELMs); Radioembolization; Yttrium-90 (Y90).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brachytherapy*
  • Embolization, Therapeutic* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / pathology
  • Yttrium Radioisotopes / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Yttrium Radioisotopes