Three Cases of Ampullary Neuroendocrine Tumor Treated by Endoscopic Papillectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review

Endoscopic Papillectomy for Ampullary Gangliocytic Paraganglioma: A Case Series and Literature Review

Objective Gangliocytic paraganglioma (GP) significantly affects patients' quality of life. However, studies on endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for ampullary GP are limited. We therefore evaluated the safety and efficacy of EP for treating ampullary GP. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with GP who underwent EP at Nagoya University Hospital and conducted a literature survey. Results We enrolled six patients with a median tumor diameter of 17 mm. Complications related to EP were observed in three patients: two experienced bleeding, one had mild acute pancreatitis, and one had perforation (duplicate patients included), all of whom improved conservatively. Five resected specimens were confined to the submucosal layer, and one was beyond the submucosal layer. All patients were monitored without surgery, and no disease recurrence was observed after a median follow-up of 73 months. A literature review identified 14 patients, and additional surgery due to a positive vertical margin after EP revealed lymph node metastasis in 2 patients. There was no disease recurrence or death. Conclusion EP led to good long-term outcomes and effectively treated ampullary GP. Considering the potential for lymph node metastasis, additional surgery is recommended if the tumor exceeds the submucosal layer.

Neuroendocrine carcinoma causing common bile duct obstruction: a case report

A 46-year-old male with no comorbidities was referred to our hospital because of jaundice and elevated LFT markers. After further investigations, he underwent magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), which revealed a hypo-enhancing periampullary mass measuring 15 mm in size causing common bile duct (CBD) dilatation of 12 mm in cross diameter with intrahepatic biliary obstruction, which explained the patient's symptoms. Side-view endoscopy was performed to obtain a specimen of the mass. Further histopathological workup revealed poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC). A multidisciplinary team (MDT) was conducted, and the patient was planned to undergo positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) scan to investigate any further organ metastasis. Unfortunately, the patient missed his upcoming appointments and was lost to follow-up. Nevertheless, more research is needed to understand pathogenesis and the best course of management for small periampullary NETs.

Role of Advanced Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in the Comprehensive Management of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), also called neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), are relatively uncommon, heterogenous tumors primarily originating in the gastrointestinal tract. With the improvement in technology and increasing use of cross-sectional imaging and endoscopy, they are being discovered with increasing frequency. Although traditionally considered indolent tumors with good prognoses, some NENs exhibit aggressive behavior. Timely diagnosis, risk stratification, and management can often be a challenge. In general, small NENs without local invasion or lymphovascular involvement can often be managed using minimally invasive advanced endoscopic techniques, while larger lesions and those with evidence of lymphovascular invasion require surgery, systemic therapy, or a combination thereof. Ideal management requires a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the stage and grade of the tumor. With the recent advancements, a therapeutic advanced endoscopist can play a pivotal role in diagnosing, staging, and managing this rare condition. High-definition white light imaging and digital image enhancing technologies like narrow band imaging (NBI) in the newer endoscopes have improved the diagnostic accuracy of traditional endoscopy. The refinement of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) over the past decade has revolutionized the role of endoscopy in diagnosing and managing various pathologies, including NENs. In addition to EUS-directed diagnostic biopsies, it also offers the ability to precisely assess the depth of invasion and lymphovascular involvement and thus stage NENs accurately. EUS-directed locoregional ablative therapies are increasingly recognized as highly effective, minimally invasive treatment modalities for NENs, particularly pancreatic NENs. Advanced endoscopic resection techniques like endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic submucosal resection (EMR), and endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) have been increasingly used over the past decade with excellent results in achieving curative resection of various early-stage gastrointestinal luminal lesions including NENs. In this article, we aim to delineate NENs of the different segments of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (esophagus, gastric, pancreatic, and small and large intestine) and their management with emphasis on the endoscopic management of these tumors.

Current status of the role of endoscopy in evaluation and management of gastrointestinal and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

The incidence of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) has increased over the last several decades. In general, NETs are slow-growing neoplasms and the data on the natural history is still evolving. The availability and improved utilization of advanced imaging modalities have allowed the selection of cases suitable for endotherapy. In this regard, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has emerged as a central imaging modality to assess the depth of infiltration in gastroduodenal as well as rectal NETs. Enhanced EUS modalities, including contrast-enhanced EUS and EUS elastography, reliably differentiate pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) from adenocarcinomas and may enable prediction of aggressive PNETs. With recent developments in therapeutic endoscopy, a large proportion of GEP-NETs can be safely managed endoscopically. Endoscopic resection techniques, including endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), allow the safe removal of gastroduodenal and rectal NETs. Recent data indicate that modified EMR techniques may be superior to conventional EMR with regard to histologically complete resection. Device-assisted endoscopic full thickness resection is emerging as a safe and effective technique for upper gastrointestinal as well as rectal NETs. In selected cases with PNETs, who are otherwise unfit for surgery, EUS-guided ablation is increasingly being recognized as a safe treatment option. This review focusses on evidence-based approaches to endoscopic evaluation and the management of GEP-NETs with special emphasis on recent advancements.

Can Ampullary G1 and G2 Neuroendocrine Tumors Be Cured by Endoscopic Papillectomy?

Objectives: At present, pancreaticoduodenectomy or local excision are the main treatment options for ampullary neuroendocrine tumors of any size with no distant spread. Endoscopic papillectomy provided a super minimally invasive treatment method for ampullary lesions. However, the studies of endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary neuroendocrine tumors were very limited. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary neuroendocrine tumors. Methods: Between August 2007 and June 2021, seven patients with ampullary neuroendocrine tumors with no advanced signs underwent endoscopic papillectomy in our center. We assessed and analyzed the related clinical outcomes. Moreover, a comprehensive literature review was conducted. Results: All the seven cases underwent endoscopic papillectomy successfully; six (85.7%) of them achieved the complete resection. No recurrence occurred over a median follow-up of 48 months (range 6–172 months). Moreover, 22 cases from the comprehensive search were included, and showed a promising clinical outcome. Conclusions: Endoscopic papillectomy appeared to be a feasible way to treat ampullary neuroendocrine tumors without the advanced signs, although further prospectively multicenter studies are warranted.

Clinicopathological Features and Prognosis Analysis of Primary Bile Duct and Ampullary Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A Population-Based Study from 1975 to 2016

BACKGROUND

The main purpose of this study is to analyze the clinicopathological features and prognosis factors of bile duct and ampullary neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs).

METHODS

The relevant data were collected from the SEER database from 1975 to 2016. The Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox model were used for survival analysis. The nomogram was drawn to predict the survival rate. The calibration, discrimination and clinical utility of the nomogram were evaluated by calibration curve, the concordance index (C-index) and decision curve analysis (DCA).

RESULTS

A total of 340 cases were included in our research. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, 1-year, 3-year and 5-year of overall survival (OS) were 77.3%, 61.9% and 58.4%, while 1-year, 3-year and 5-year of the disease-specific survival (DSS) were 82.7%, 69.3% and 66.9%, respectively. The multivariable analysis results showed that age, histological grade, SEER stage and surgery were independent predictors for either OS or DSS. The calibration curve and the C-index value indicated that the nomogram was well calibrated and had good discrimination. DCA showed that the model had ideal net benefits.

CONCLUSIONS

The age, histological grade, SEER stage and surgery were identified as independent prognostic variables for OS and DSS. After verification, nomogram has good predictive ability and clinical application value.

Surgical options for the treatment of neuroendocrine neoplasms of the ampulla of Vater: a reference centre experience

INTRODUCTION

The main objective of this study was to analyse the results of the surgical treatment of ampullary neuroendocrine tumours (NET) based on transduodenal ampullectomy and pancreatoduodenectomy, in a reference centre in hepatobiliopancreatic pathology.

METHOD

Retrospective, observational study, including all patients operated on for pancreatic and/or duodenal NET in a reference unit of hepatobiliopancreatic pathology and prospectively registered between January 1st, 1993 and September 30th, 2021. For those parameters not present, retrospective research was performed. Demographic, clinical, analytical and pathological data were analysed. A descriptive study was carried out. Overall and disease-free survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier curves and the Log-Rank test.

RESULTS

Of 181 patients operated on for pancreatic and/or duodenal NET, only 9 were located in the ampulla of Vater, which represents 4.9% of all pancreatic and/or duodenal NET. Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) was performed in 6 patients, while 3 patients underwent transduodenal ampullectomy (TDA). Longer surgical time and more postoperative complications were observed in the PD group. There were no differences in hospital stay. Overall and disease-free survival at 5 years in the PD group compared to ATD was 83.3% vs. 100% and 50% vs. 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Ampullary NET without locoregional involvement or risk factors, can be treated by conservative surgeries such as transduodenal ampullectomy.

Diagnosis, treatment, and current concepts in the endoscopic management of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) are rare tumors derived from the neuroendocrine cell system, which that have increased in incidence and prevalence in recent years. Despite improvements in radiological and metabolic imaging, endoscopy still plays a pivotal role in the number of GEP-NENs. Tumor detection, characterization, and staging are essential in management and treatment planning. Upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is essential for correct localization of the primary tumor site of GI NENs. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has an important role in the imaging and tissue acquisition of pancreatic NENs and locoregional staging of GI neuroendocrine tumors. Correct staging and histological diagnosis have important prognostic implications. Endoscopic operating techniques allow the removal of small GI NENs in the early stage of mucosal or submucosal invasion of the intestinal wall. Preoperative EUS-guided techniques may help the surgeon locate small and deep tumors, thus avoiding formal pancreatic resections in favor of parenchymal-sparing surgery. Finally, locoregional ablative treatments have been proposed in recent studies with promising results in selected patients.

Two Cases of Hemorrhagic Ampullary Lesions Successfully Treated by Endoscopic Papillectomy

We herein report two cases of hemorrhagic ampullary lesions in which endoscopic papillotomy was performed to control bleeding and resulted in successful treatment. Both patients were pathologically diagnosed with an underlying pathology characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration and capillary proliferation. They also had disposing factors for bleeding, such as antithrombotic therapy and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Endoscopic treatment was selected because the risk of surgical resection was high due to the patients' hemorrhagic condition. Both patients were successfully treated without any serious adverse events and had an uneventful postoperative course with no relapse of bleeding.

State of the Art in Endoscopic Therapy for the Management of Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

OPINION STATEMENT

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP NENs) comprise a heterogeneous group of slow growing tumors arising from the neuroendocrine cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although they are considered relatively rare, their incidence is rising and it is believed that the more frequent use of endoscopy and imaging studies have at least in part contributed to the increased diagnosis especially of localized neoplasms. The management of these neoplasms should be guided by a multidisciplinary NEN team following appropriate staging investigations. Localized neoplasms of the GI tract may be suitable for endoscopic therapy, while patients with pancreatic NENs, unsuitable for surgery, should be considered for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided ablation. In this review, we discuss the evidence regarding endoscopic resection of luminal NENs and EUS-guided therapy of pancreatic NENs. The efficacy, safety, and other longer-term outcomes of these techniques are summarized. In conclusion, this review of endoscopic therapies for localized NENs may be a useful guide for NEN clinicians and endoscopists who are considering these therapeutic options for the management of focal GEP NENs.

Endoscopic papillectomy for tumors of the minor duodenal papilla: A case series of six patients and literature review

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Various tumors of the minor duodenal papilla have been reported, most of which are treated by laparotomy. Although early-stage tumors of the major papilla are increasingly being treated by endoscopic resection with relative ease and low invasiveness, there are only a few reports on endoscopic resection of tumors in the minor papilla.

METHODS

Six patients with tumors in the minor papilla were treated by endoscopic papillectomy (EP), and their clinical and histopathological data were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The final pathological diagnoses were carcinoma in adenoma in two patients and adenoma, neuroendocrine neoplasm (G1), hyperplastic lesion, and no neoplastic lesion (disappearance of adenoma after biopsy) in one patient each. En bloc resection was performed in five patients and piecemeal resection in one patient. There were no procedure-related adverse events, such as bleeding, pancreatitis, or perforation. There was one case with a residual lesion, which was treated by ablation therapy, and no recurrences during a mean follow-up of 12 ± 10.33 months (maximum, 28 months) from the date of EP.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic papillectomy appears to be an effective minimally invasive treatment for ampullary tumors of the minor duodenal papilla.

Endoscopic papillectomy for an ampullary neuroendocrine tumor

Ampullary neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are extremely rare, have a high rate of transmural invasion and lymph node metastasis, and are generally recommended for surgery. In contrast, endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for ampullary NET, a low-grade type within the submucosal layer, is feasible and useful to avoid surgery. However, EP for ampullary NET is controversial, there are no consensus guidelines, and international recommendations are lacking. We present the case of a 60-year-old man with an ampullary NET who was successfully treated with EP via a hexagonal snare. Prior to EP, endoscopic ultrasonography, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, and intraductal ultrasonography in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography were performed to assess for ductal infiltration of the NET. The specimen revealed a low-grade NET measuring 1.0 × 0.8 × 0.7 cm without venous or lymphatic infiltration, which was negative for horizontal and vertical margins. No recurrence was observed over a 12-month follow-up.