Evaluation of Rectal Neuroendocrine Tumors Treated with Endoscopic Resection

Abstract

Objective: Rectal neuroendocrine tumors (rNETs) are a rare type of tumor that belong to a larger group called neuroendocrine neoplasms. These tumors are
divided into two main categories: well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NET G1 and G2) and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (NEC G3).
rNETs are often not noticed because they do not show symptoms, but they can sometimes cause bowel problems or hormone-related symptoms. Small rNETs are
usually treated with endoscopic resection, while larger tumors may need surgery or other treatments.

Materials and Methods: The aim of this study is to look at the clinical and histopathological features of rNETs treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection
(ESD). The focus was on factors like tumor size, location, and the Ki-67 index, and how they affect patient outcomes.

Results: In this study, the average age of patients was 52.6 years, and half of them were women. Most of the tumors were located between 5 and 10 cm from
the rectum (56.3%). The majority of tumors were smaller than 10 mm (81.3%), and 56.3% of them were Grade 1. There was no significant correlation between
tumor size and the Ki-67 index (r=0.215, P=.424).

Conclusion: Endoscopic submucosal dissection is a good treatment for rNETs that are smaller than 10 mm, with a high success rate in removing the tumor
completely. For larger tumors or those with higher Ki-67 indices, careful monitoring is needed because they may have a higher risk of spreading.

Cite this article as: Aktaş L, Vatansever S. Evaluation of rectal neuroendocrine tumors treated with endoscopic resection. Diagn Interv
Endosc, 2025, 4(1), 0133, DOI:10.5152/DiagnIntervEndosc.2025.24133.