Systemic therapy for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

Abstract

Systemic therapy for pancreatic NEN differs for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (NET) and pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC). For pancreatic NETs, treatment purpose differs between hormonal symptom control or tumor growth suppression. Somatostatin analogues are mainly for hormonal symptom control. Somatostatin analogues, molecular target agents, and cytotoxic agents are for tumor growth suppression. Proper use is guided by the treatment selection MAP for pancreatic NETs. In addition, radionuclide-labeled peptide therapy is now available in Japan, and timing of introduction is also important. Platinum-based chemotherapy is standard treatment for pancreatic NEC. Various treatments are available for pancreatic NEN, so a multidisciplinary approach that makes proper use of these treatments is required.