Treatment Options for Gastric Neuroendocrine Tumors

Gastric neuroendocrine tumors, commonly referred to as carcinoids, can be effectively managed depending on their size and stage. Small gastric carcinoids can often be removed through minimally invasive endoscopic techniques, such as endoscopic mucosal resection or endoscopic submucosal dissection. These procedures are typically outpatient and offer quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgery.

When the tumor is larger or more advanced, surgical resection becomes the preferred treatment approach. For larger neuroendocrine tumors, the surgical procedure is similar to that used for gastric cancer, often involving partial or total gastrectomy along with lymph node dissection. After surgical removal, further treatment may be considered based on the tumor's pathology, including its grade and whether lymph node involvement is present. However, due to the relatively low metastatic potential of these tumors, many are detected early and successfully removed using endoscopic methods.

Most neuroendocrine tumors found during routine endoscopy are small and classified as Grade 1 (G1), which indicates a low proliferation index and excellent prognosis. In these cases, complete endoscopic removal often results in a cure, with no need for additional therapy.

To summarize, there are two main treatment strategies for gastric neuroendocrine tumors. Endoscopic treatment is ideal for tumors smaller than 1 cm with a G1 histological grade, offering a less invasive and highly effective solution. However, for larger lesions or those classified as Grade 2 (G2), surgical intervention is generally recommended to ensure complete removal and reduce the risk of recurrence. Early diagnosis through routine endoscopic screening plays a crucial role in selecting the most appropriate and least invasive treatment option.