Published online Jan 7, 2014. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i1.118
Revised: October 31, 2013
Accepted: November 18, 2013
Published online: January 7, 2014
Gastric neuroendocrine tumors (GNETs) are rare lesions characterized by hypergastrinemia that arise from enterochromaffin-like cells of the stomach. GNETs consist of a heterogeneous group of neoplasms comprising tumor types of varying pathogenesis, histomorphologic characteristics, and biological behavior. A classification system has been proposed that distinguishes four types of GNETs; the clinicopathological features of the tumor, its prognosis, and the patient’s survival strictly depend on this classification. Thus, correct management of patients with GNETs can only be proposed when the tumor has been classified by an accurate pathological and clinical evaluation of the patient. Recently developed cancer therapies such as inhibition of angiogenesis or molecular targeting of growth factor receptors have been used to treat GNETs, but the only definitive therapy is the complete resection of the tumor. Here we review the literature on GNETs, and summarize the classification, clinicopathological features (especially prognosis), clinical presentations and current practice of management of GNETs. We also present the latest findings on new gene markers for GNETs, and discuss the effective drugs developed for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of GNETs.
Core tip: Gastric neuroendocrine tumors (GNETs) comprise distinct tumor entities that have been classified on the basis of pathogenesis and histomorphologic characteristics into 4 types that differ in biological behavior and prognosis. To plan the correct management and optimal therapeutic approach in patients with GNETs, it is essential to obtain an adequate clinical evaluation and assessment of the pathological features of the tumor. Development of new gene markers as well as effective drugs is expected for the better diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of GNETs.