Mixed neuroendocrine non-neuroendocrine neoplasms in gastroenteropancreatic tract

Abstract

Mixed neuroendocrine non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) are a heterogeneous group of malignant neoplasms that can settle in the gastroenteropancreatic tract. They are composed of a neuroendocrine (NE) and a non-NE component in at least 30% of each tumour. The non-NE component can include different histological combinations of glandular, squamous, mucinous and sarcomatoid phenotypes, and one or both of the components can be low-or high grade malignant. Recent changes in the nomenclature of these neoplasms might lead to great deal of confusion, and the lack of specific clinical trials is the main reason why their management is difficult. The review aims to clarify the definition of MiNEN and analyze available evidence about their diagnosis and treatment options according to their location and extension through careful analysis of the available data. It would be important to reach a general consensus on their diagnosis in order to construct a classification that remains stable over time and facilitates the design of clinical trials that, due to their low incidence, will require long recruitment periods.