Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma at the esophagogastric junction. An extremely rare entity

Rev Esp Enferm Dig. 2023 Dec;115(12):719-720. doi: 10.17235/reed.2023.9505/2023.

Abstract

We present the third case described to date of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma located at the esophagogastric junction (LCNEC). Esophageal neuroendocrine tumours account for 0.03-0.05% of all malignant esophageal tumours. Within oesophageal NETs, LCNEC accounts for 1% of esophageal NETs. This tumour type is characterised by elevated levels of certain markers: synaptophysin, chromogranin A and CD56. In fact, 100% of patients will have chromogranin or synaptophysin, or at least one of these three markers. In turn, 78% will have lymphovascular invasion and 26% will have perineural invasion. Only 11% of patients will have stage I-II, which implies an aggressive course and worse prognosis.

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor*
  • Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine* / diagnostic imaging
  • Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine* / pathology
  • Esophagogastric Junction / pathology
  • Humans
  • Synaptophysin / metabolism

Substances

  • Synaptophysin
  • Biomarkers, Tumor

Supplementary concepts

  • Gastro-enteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumor