Chronic Treatment with Somatostatin Analogues in Recurrent Type 1 Gastric Neuroendocrine Tumors.

BACKGROUND

Type 1 gastric neuroendocrine tumors (GC-1) represent an uncommon subtype of neoplasms. Endoscopic resection has been proposed as the treatment of choice; active surveillance may be performed in those smaller than 1 cm, while gastric surgery may be performed for those with frequent recurrences. The antiproliferative effect of somatostatin analogues (SSA) is well known, and their action on GC-1s has been postulated as a chronic treatment to reduce recurrence.

METHODS

A two-centered, retrospective, observational study that included nine patients (55.6% women) diagnosed with GC-1, receiving long-term treatment with SSA, with a median follow-up from baseline of 22 months, was undertaken. Endoscopic follow-up, extension study, and analytical values of chromogranin A (Cg A) and gastrin were collected.

RESULTS

In total, 88.9% of patients presented partial or complete response. Treatment with SSA was the only independent factor with a trend to prevent tumor recurrence (Odds Ratio 0.054; = 0.005). A nonsignificant tendency toward a decrease in CgA and gastrin was observed; lack of significance was probably related to concomitant treatment with proton pump inhibitors in some patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic treatment with SSA is a feasible option for recurrent GC-1s that are difficult to manage using endoscopy or gastrectomy. Randomized clinical trials to provide more scientific evidence are still needed.