Role of advanced imaging in primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumor with borderline raised AFP and negative chromogranin staining: A case report.

BACKGROUND

Primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumors (PHNETs) are rare, accounting for approximately 0.3 % of all neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and are often difficult to diagnose due to their nonspecific symptoms and imaging features. Standard diagnostic and treatment protocols are lacking due to their rarity, but imaging and immunohistochemistry (IHC) remain key tools for diagnosis.

CASE REPORT

A 68-year-old male presented with abdominal discomfort and loss of appetite. Imaging revealed a large exophytic mass in the left lobe of the liver. After ruling out extrahepatic primary sources, a left lobe hepatectomy was performed. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of PHNET, with positive IHC staining for synaptophysin and CK-7. Postoperative PET-CT ruled out any distant metastases. The patient had an uneventful recovery.

DISCUSSION

PHNETs are believed to originate from ectopic neuroendocrine cells in the liver, though several theories exist. Imaging alone cannot conclusively diagnose PHNETs, as they mimic other hepatic tumors like hepatocellular carcinoma. Histopathological examination, along with IHC markers like chromogranin and synaptophysin, is essential for diagnosis. Surgical resection remains the treatment of choice, with good outcomes despite the risk of recurrence. Non-surgical therapies, such as chemotherapy or ablation, are under investigation but lack consensus.

CONCLUSION

PHNETs are rare and challenging to diagnose, requiring imaging and IHC for confirmation. Surgery offers the best prognosis, making personalized, surgery-centered treatment plans essential for management. Comprehensive follow-up, including functional imaging, is necessary to monitor recurrence or metastasis.