Small Biopsy and Cytology of Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Brief Overview of Classification, Immunohistochemistry, Molecular Profiles, and World Health Organization Updates

Adv Anat Pathol. 2022 Nov 1;29(6):329-336. doi: 10.1097/PAP.0000000000000360. Epub 2022 Sep 2.

Abstract

Pulmonary neuroendocrine neoplasms comprise ~20% of all lung tumors. Typical carcinoid, atypical carcinoid, small cell carcinoma, and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma represent the 4 major distinct subtypes recognized on resections. This review provides a brief overview of the cytomorphologic features and the 2021 World Health Organization classification of these tumor types on small biopsy and cytology specimens. Also discussed are the role of immunohistochemistry in the diagnosis and molecular signatures of pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Carcinoid Tumor* / diagnosis
  • Carcinoid Tumor* / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lung Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Lung Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / diagnosis
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / pathology
  • World Health Organization