| Theme |
Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Gastrointestinal Tract |
| Title |
Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastric Endocrine Cell Carcinomas |
| Author |
Ken Nishikura |
Division of Molecular and Functional Pathology, Niigata University, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences |
| Author |
Yoichi Ajioka |
Division of Molecular and Diagnostic Pathology, Niigata University, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences |
| Author |
Gen Watanabe |
Division of Molecular and Diagnostic Pathology, Niigata University, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences |
| [ Summary ] |
Endocrine cell carcinomas of the stomach are characterized by aggressive biological behavior and endocrine differentiation. This type of carcinoma arises from endocrine precursor cell clones occurring in preceding adenocarcinoma components (particularly the differentiated type), transforming into endocrine cell carcinoma under the influence of p 53 gene alteration. It is diagnosed on the basis of typical histological findings and confirmed by diffuse positivity for endocrine markers. Ki 67 immunostain and p 53-protein immunostain are useful in distinguishing it from atypical carcinoids. As a rule, endocrine cell carcinoma should be resected surgically with wide dissection of lymph nodes and adjuvant chemotherapy. |