Neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas: Is it also a challenge for pediatricians?

Abstract

Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas are extremely rare in the pediatric population and limited data is available. In most cases, NET of the gastrointestinal tract in children are located in the appendix. Pancreatic NET are a small but partially distinct group of the gastrointestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms. The most common in this group are insulinomas; however, in some research, the gastrinoma type neoplasms are perceived to be most common in children. This study reviews the typical clinical presentation, appropriate diagnostics, staging, and treatment of these uncommon neoplasms. It is important to know the epidemiology and symptomatology in this age group despite the fact that the majority of physicians treating the youngest patients will never have to deal with it. This will facilitate an early diagnosis in case of symptoms that may suggest neuroendocrine cancer. It appears necessary to create harmonized recommendations regarding the diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment follow-up for pediatric patients.