Neuroendocrine Tumors: Diagnostics

PET Clin. 2024 Jul;19(3):325-339. doi: 10.1016/j.cpet.2024.03.008. Epub 2024 May 6.

Abstract

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) are rare tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells. NEN are ideally suited for a theragnostic approach due to their specific expression of somatostatin receptors (SSTR). SSTR imaging of NEN dates back to the 1980s, but has evolved recently due to the introduction of more sensitive SSTR PET radiotracers. SSTR PET is a primary imaging modality for identifying NEN and characterizing SSTR expression. SSTR PET is complementary to anatomic imaging for assessing tumor response to treatment. SSTR PET is mandated to determine eligibility for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy. Here, the role of imaging to aid management of NEN is reviewed.

Keywords: Dotatate; Ga68; Neuroendocrine neoplasm; Neuroendocrine tumor; PET; PRRT; Somatatostatin receptor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / diagnostic imaging
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography / methods
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Receptors, Somatostatin* / metabolism

Substances

  • Receptors, Somatostatin
  • Radiopharmaceuticals