High-grade neuroendocrine neoplasms (HG-NENs) are clinically aggressive diseases, the classification of which has recently been redefined. They now include both poorly differentiated NENs (neuroendocrine carcinoma, NECs) and high proliferating well-differentiated NENs (called grade 3 neuroendocrine tumors, G3 NETs, in the digestive system). In the last decade, the "molecular revolution" that has affected all fields of medical oncology has also shed light in the understanding of HG NENs heterogeneity and has provided new diagnostic and therapeutic tools, useful in the management of these malignancies. Considering the kaleidoscopic aspects of HG NENs in various anatomical sites, this review systematically addresses the genomic landscape of such neoplasm throughout the more common thoracic and digestive locations, as well as it will consider other rare but not exceptional primary sites, including the skin, the head and neck, and the urogenital system. The revision of the available literature will then be oriented to understand the translational relevance of molecular data, by analyzing conceptual issues, clinicopathological correlations, and unmet needs in this field.
Keywords: Genetics; Genomics; Grade 3 neuroendocrine tumor; High-grade neuroendocrine neoplasms; Molecular analysis; Neuroendocrine carcinoma.