Tri-modal management of primary small cell carcinoma of the pancreas (SCCP): a rare neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC)

BMC Gastroenterol. 2021 Sep 3;21(1):340. doi: 10.1186/s12876-021-01901-7.

Abstract

Background: Primary small cell carcinoma of the pancreas (SCCP) is a rare malignant neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC). Typically, it presents with lymphovascular invasion as well as metastasis at the time of diagnosis which portends a dismal prognosis. Treatment is typically based on therapy used for other aggressive NECs such as small cell lung cancer. Although multimodal surgery, radiation and chemotherapy may improve prognosis, the outcome generally remains poor.

Case presentation: Here we present a primary SCCP managed with neoadjuvant multi-agent chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy and surgery CONCLUSIONS: Multi-disciplinary therapy resulted in an ongoing 28 + month radiographic complete response and overall survival.

Keywords: Carcinoma; Neuroendocrine carcinoma; Pancreas; Small cell.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine* / therapy
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Lung Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Pancreas
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Prognosis
  • Small Cell Lung Carcinoma*