New Developments in Gastric Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Purpose of Review Gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (g-NENs) are a rare type of stomach cancer. The three main subtypes have different pathogeneses, biological behaviours and clinical characteristics, so they require different management strategies. This article will provide an overview of g-NENs and highlight recent advances in the field. Recent Findings Molecular profiling has revealed differences between indolent and aggressive g-NENs, as well as a new somatic mutation responsible for some familial type I g-NENs. Novel biomarkers have been developed which will hopefully improve diagnosis, treatment, risk stratification and follow-up. Patient treatment is also changing, as evidence supports the use of less aggressive options (e.g. endoscopic surveillance or resection) in some patients with more indolent tumours. g-NEN heterogeneity poses challenges in understanding and managing this rare disease. More basic science research is needed to investigate molecular pathogenesis, and future larger clinical studies will hopefully also further improve treatment and patient outcomes.

Automated summary

Gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms (g-NENs), a rare type of stomach cancer, have different pathogenesis and clinical characteristics, requiring different treatment strategies. Recent research has made progress in identifying differences between indolent and aggressive g-NENs and discovering a new mutation. Novel biomarkers have also been developed to improve diagnosis and treatment. However, the heterogeneity of g-NENs poses challenges in understanding and managing this disease, necessitating further research.