Analysis of the clinical features of 20 cases of non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical features of non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and to summarize experiences in the diagnosis and treatment. Methods The clinical pathology and follow-up data of 20 patients with non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors treated in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, from January 2008 to February 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Results Among the 20 patients, 9 patients (9/20) were asymptomatic, and the tumor was found unexpectedly by physical examination. Eleven patients (11/20) with symptoms were admitted to the hospital due to non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms or compression symptoms caused by tumor space occupying. None of the patients had endocrine disorders. There were nineteen patients who received surgical treatment. According to the grading system, there were 7 patients (7/19) with G1, and 12 patients (12/19) with G2. Among the 14 patients with diameter of tumor greater than 2 cm, there are 4 patients (4/14) with lymph node metastasis, and 4 patients (4/14) with liver metastasis. Five patients with diameter of tumor less than or equal to 2 cm had no distant metastasis. Conclusions NF-pNETs is often with nonspecific symptoms. Imaging examination is an important diagnostic method. Operation is the primary therapy for NF-pNETs. Because most of the small NF-pNETs with no symptoms are benign and grow slowly, and the metastatic rate is very low. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of surgical treatment for these patients. Key words: Nonfunctional pancreatic tumors; Neuroendocrine tumor; Clinical; Treatment