CT and MRI

Well–recognized and widely available options for managing NETs1-3

Computed tomography (CT): CT is a widely available tool for the localization and staging of solid tumors, including NETs. Triple-phase CT images may be obtained with a helical or spiral scanner.1,2,4 Scanning should be performed using a contrast medium. In the absence of contrast media, NETs can be isodense with surrounding tissue.1

CT can be used for surgical candidates as part of preoperative planning; it may also help identify the spread of the disease and monitor growth rates.1 Spiral CT, in particular, has demonstrated particular effectiveness in identifying liver, lymph node, and bone metastases.5

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI is a well-recognized imaging technique, useful in the localization of NETs and their metastases.1-3
Injection of a contrast medium (such as gadolinium) facilitates the visualization of NETs, as these tumors may appear isodense with the surrounding tissue.6

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A list of available tools to help patients with NETs and the physicians who care for them

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Diagnosing NETs

Multidisciplinary Approach

Many of the same tools that can be used to monitor NETs can be helpful in diagnosing them.

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Continue the conversation about neuroendocrine tumors and diagnosis at your convenience.

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1. Reznek RH. CT/MRI of neuroendocrine tumors. Cancer Imaging. 2006;6:S163-S177.
2. Dromain C, de Baere T, Lumbroso J, et al. Detection of liver metastases from endocrine tumors: a prospective comparison of somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. J Clin Oncol. 2005;23(1):70-78.
3. Gibril F, Jensen RT. Comparative analysis of diagnostic techniques for localization of gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors. Yale J Biol Med. 1997;70(2):509-522.
4. Kaltsas GA, Besser GM, Grossman AB. The diagnosis and medical management of advanced neuroendocrine tumors. Endocr Rev. 2004;25(3):458-511.
5. Kumbasar B, Kamel IR, Tekes A, Eng J, Fishman EK, Wahl RL. Imaging of neuroendocrine tumors: accuracy of helical CT versus SRS. Abdom Imaging. 2004;29:696-702.
6. Bader TR, Semelka RC, Chiu VCY, Armao DM, Woosley JT. MRI of carcinoid tumors: spectrum of appearances in the gastrointestinal tract and liver. J Magn Reson Imaging. 2001;14(3):261-269.
1. Reznek RH. CT/MRI of neuroendocrine tumors. Cancer Imaging. 2006;6:S163-S177.
2. Dromain C, de Baere T, Lumbroso J, et al. Detection of liver metastases from endocrine tumors: a prospective comparison of somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. J Clin Oncol. 2005;23(1):70-78.
3. Gibril F, Jensen RT. Comparative analysis of diagnostic techniques for localization of gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors. Yale J Biol Med. 1997;70(2):509-522.