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K Nazar A, Basu S. Radiolabeled Somatostatin Analogs for Cancer Imaging. Semin Nucl Med 2024:S0001-2998(24)00058-8. [PMID: 39122608 DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Somatostatin receptors (SSTR) are expressed by many tumours especially those related to neuro-endocrine origin and molecular functional imaging of SSTR expression using radiolabelled somatostatin analogs have revolutionized imaging of patients with these group of malignancies. Coming a long way from the first radiolabelled somatostatin analog 123I-Tyr-3-octreotide, there has been significant developments in terms of radionuclides used, the ligands and somatostatin derivatives. 111In-Pentetreotide extensively employed for imaging NETs at the beginning has now been replaced by 68Ga-SSA based PET-CT. SSA-PET/CT performs superior to conventional imaging modalities and has evolved in the mainframe for NET imaging. The advantages were multiple: (i) superior spatial resolution of PET versus SPECT, (ii) quantitative capabilities of PET aiding in disease activity and treatment response monitoring with better precision, (iii) shorter scan time and (iv) less patient exposure to radiation. The modality is indicated for staging, detecting the primary in CUP-NETs, restaging, treatment planning (along with FDG: the concept of dual-tracer PET-CT) as well as treatment response evaluation and follow-up of NETs. SSA PET/CT has also been incorporated in the guidelines for imaging of Pheochromocytoma-Paraganglioma, Medullary carcinoma thyroid, Meningioma and Tumor induced osteomalacia. At present, there is rising interest on (a) 18F-labelled SSA, (b) 64Cu-labelled SSA, and (c) somatostatin antagonists. 18F offers excellent imaging properties, 64Cu makes delayed imaging feasible which has implications in dosimetry and SSTR antagonists bind with the SST receptors with high affinity and specificity, providing high contrast images with less background, which can be translated to theranostics effectively. SSTR have been demonstrated in non-neuroendocrine tumours as well in the peer-reviewed literature, with studies demonstrating the potential of SSA PET/CT in Neuroblastoma, Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, carcinoma prostate (neuroendocrine differentiation) and lymphoma. This review will focus on the currently available SSAs and their history, different SPECT/PET agents, SSTR antagonists, comparison between the various imaging tracers, and their utility in both neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamir K Nazar
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, Mumbai; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai
| | - Sandip Basu
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, Mumbai; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai.
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Massironi S, Franchina M, Ippolito D, Elisei F, Falco O, Maino C, Pagni F, Elvevi A, Guerra L, Invernizzi P. Improvements and future perspective in diagnostic tools for neuroendocrine neoplasms. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2024; 19:349-366. [PMID: 38836602 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2024.2363537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) represent a complex group of tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells, characterized by heterogeneous behavior and challenging diagnostics. Despite advancements in medical technology, NENs present a major challenge in early detection, often leading to delayed diagnosis and variable outcomes. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of current diagnostic methods as well as the evolving and future directions of diagnostic strategies for NENs. AREA COVERED The review extensively covers the evolution of diagnostic tools for NENs, from traditional imaging and biochemical tests to advanced genomic profiling and next-generation sequencing. The emerging role of technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and liquid biopsies could improve diagnostic precision, as could the integration of imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) hybrids and innovative radiotracers. EXPERT OPINION Despite progress, there is still a significant gap in the early diagnosis of NENs. Bridging this diagnostic gap and integrating advanced technologies and precision medicine are crucial to improving patient outcomes. However, challenges such as low clinical awareness, limited possibility of noninvasive diagnostic tools and funding limitations for rare diseases like NENs are acknowledged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Massironi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Marianna Franchina
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Davide Ippolito
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Federica Elisei
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Olga Falco
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Cesare Maino
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Elvevi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Luca Guerra
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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Dubois J, Tosato G, Garrigue P, Taieb D, Guillet B, Nail V. Short-Term Biological Toxicity Prediction of [ 177Lu]Lutetium-Oxodotreotide: An Original Retrospective Analysis. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2024; 39:381-389. [PMID: 38655905 PMCID: PMC11304756 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2023.0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: [177Lu]Lutetium (Lu)-oxodotreotide is a radiopharmaceutical drug used as peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for somatostatin receptor-expressing neuroendocrine neoplasms. It provides an additional effective alternative treatment for these rare cancers. Although well tolerated, its safety profile must continue to be characterized to support its use as a first-line treatment or for additional cycles. This study evaluated factors associated with the occurrence of [177Lu]Lu-oxodotreotide induced short-term toxicity. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational monocentric study was carried out from July 2013 to October 2021. Inclusion criteria were defined as follows: patients who received at least four cycles of [177Lu]Lu-oxodotreotide and were followed up for 6 months after the last injection. Graduated toxicity was defined using the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events 5.0. Cox regression was used in the analysis. Results: Forty patients were included. The most frequent toxicities occurred during the first cycle and were graded as G1 or G2. As expected, toxicities were predominantly hematological and hepatic, with incomplete reversibility after each cycle. The following factors were significantly related to the occurrence of hematological or hepatic toxicity during PRRT: gastrointestinal primary tumor diagnosis, bone metastases, peritoneal metastases, pancreatic metastases or pulmonary metastases, and high tumor grade. Conclusion: Knowledge and consideration of these factors in adjusting [177Lu]Lu-oxodotreotide treatment regimen could help prevent or reduce the severity of these toxicities. Further studies are still warranted to refine these results and improve treatment management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Dubois
- Department of Radiopharmacy, La Timone University Hospital, CERIMED, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
- Cancer Research Institute of Montpellier (IRCM), University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Guillaume Tosato
- Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Garrigue
- Department of Radiopharmacy, La Timone University Hospital, CERIMED, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - David Taieb
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, La Timone University Hospital, CERIMED, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Benjamin Guillet
- Department of Radiopharmacy, La Timone University Hospital, CERIMED, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Vincent Nail
- Department of Radiopharmacy, La Timone University Hospital, CERIMED, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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Corti F, Rossi RE, Cafaro P, Passarella G, Turla A, Pusceddu S, Coppa J, Oldani S, Guidi A, Longarini R, Cortinovis DL. Emerging Treatment Options for Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of Unknown Primary Origin: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2025. [PMID: 38893145 PMCID: PMC11171242 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Among neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), a non-negligible proportion (9-22%) is represented by sufferers of NENs of unknown primary origin (UPO), a poor prognostic group with largely unmet clinical needs. In the absence of standard therapeutic algorithms, current guidelines suggest that the treatment of UPO-NENs should be based on tumor clinical-pathological characteristics, disease burden, and patient conditions. Chemotherapy represents the backbone for the treatment of high-grade poorly differentiated UPO-NENs, usually providing deep but short-lasting responses. Conversely, the spectrum of available systemic therapy options for well-differentiated UPO-NENs may range from somatostatin analogs in indolent low-grade tumors, to peptide receptor radioligand therapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), or chemotherapy for more aggressive tumors or in case of high disease burden. In recent years, molecular profiling has provided deep insights into the molecular landscape of UPO-NENs, with both diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Although preliminary, interesting activity data have been provided about upfront chemoimmunotherapy, the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and the combination of ICIs plus TKIs in this setting. Here, we review the literature from the last 30 years to examine the available evidence about the treatment of UPO-NENs, with a particular focus on future perspectives, including the expanding scenario of targeted agents in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Corti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
| | - Roberta Elisa Rossi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy;
| | - Pietro Cafaro
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
| | - Gaia Passarella
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
| | - Antonella Turla
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
| | - Sara Pusceddu
- Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic and Neuroendocrine Unit 1, Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Center of Excellence, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.P.); (S.O.)
| | - Jorgelina Coppa
- Hepatology and Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Simone Oldani
- Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic and Neuroendocrine Unit 1, Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Center of Excellence, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.P.); (S.O.)
| | - Alessandro Guidi
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
| | - Raffaella Longarini
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
| | - Diego Luigi Cortinovis
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Via G.B. Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, Italy; (P.C.); (G.P.); (A.T.); (A.G.); (R.L.); (D.L.C.)
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Rossi RE, Corti F, Pusceddu S, Milione M, Coppa J, Masoni B, Oldani S, Sabella G, Cafaro P, Repici A. Multidisciplinary Approach to the Diagnosis of Occult Primary Neuroendocrine Neoplasm: A Clinical Challenge. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5537. [PMID: 37685605 PMCID: PMC10488469 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12175537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 11% to 14% of subjects with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) have metastatic lesions with unknown primary origin (UPO), with the majority of UPO-NENs found in the small bowel. Herein, we assessed the available literature on UPO-NENs, focusing on clinical presentation and diagnostic techniques to identify the primary site. The identification of the primary tumor is important as it affects the prognosis; however, the clinical presentation can be non-specific in non-functioning forms. In the presence of metastatic disease, the histological sample is fundamental to obtain immunohistochemical markers that might orientate the clinician in the search for the primary tumor through radiology, functional imaging and endoscopic techniques. In summary, multidisciplinary management plays a key role in UPO-NENs, even more than in other NENs. Molecular biology and gene-expression profiling represent areas of great interest which might be developed in the near future for both the diagnosis and the treatment of these neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Elisa Rossi
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (B.M.); (A.R.)
| | - Francesca Corti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori Monza, Via G.B. Pergolesi, 20900 Monza, Italy; (F.C.); (P.C.)
| | - Sara Pusceddu
- Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic and Neuroendocrine Tumor Unit 1, Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Center of Excellence, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.P.); (S.O.)
| | - Massimo Milione
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS–Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Jorgelina Coppa
- Hepatology and Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Benedetta Masoni
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (B.M.); (A.R.)
| | - Simone Oldani
- Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic and Neuroendocrine Tumor Unit 1, Department of Medical Oncology, ENETS Center of Excellence, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via Venezian 1, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.P.); (S.O.)
| | - Giovanna Sabella
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS–Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Pietro Cafaro
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori Monza, Via G.B. Pergolesi, 20900 Monza, Italy; (F.C.); (P.C.)
| | - Alessandro Repici
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (B.M.); (A.R.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
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Adnan A, Basu S. Somatostatin Receptor Targeted PET-CT and Its Role in the Management and Theranostics of Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2154. [PMID: 37443548 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Somatostatin receptor (SSTR) agonist-based Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT) imaging is nowadays the mainstay for the assessment and diagnostic imaging of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN), especially in well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NET) (World Health Organization (WHO) grade I and II). Major clinical indications for SSTR imaging are primary staging and metastatic workup, especially (a) before surgery, (b) detection of unknown primary in metastatic NET, (c) patient selection for theranostics and appropriate therapy, especially peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), while less major indications include treatment response evaluation on and disease prognostication. Dual tracer PET-CT imaging using SSTR targeted PET tracers, viz. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Tyr3-Octreotate (DOTA-TATE) and [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-NaI3-Octreotide (DOTA-NOC), and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), have recently gained widespread acceptance for better assessment of whole-body tumor biology compared to single-site histopathology, in terms of being non-invasive and the ability to assess inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity on a global scale. FDG uptake has been identified as independent adverse risk factor in various studies. Recently, somatostatin receptor antagonists have been shown to be more sensitive and specific in detecting the disease. The aim of this review article is to summarize the clinical importance of SSTR-based imaging in the clinical management of neuroendocrine and related tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aadil Adnan
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, JerbaiWadia Road, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Sandip Basu
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre Annexe, JerbaiWadia Road, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
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Metastatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of Unknown Primary: Clues from Pathology Workup. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092210. [PMID: 35565339 PMCID: PMC9100271 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary While most neuroendocrine neoplasms are indolent and slow-growing tumors, subsets of cases will spread beyond the tissue of origin. Given the rather slow progress, some lesions are incidentally discovered as metastatic deposits rather than primary masses. In these cases, a biopsy is often taken to allow the pathologist to identify the tumor type and possibly the primary tumor site via microscopic examination. In this review, the authors present a simplified guide on how to approach metastatic neuroendocrine tumors from a pathologist’s perspective. Abstract Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are diverse tumors arising in various anatomical locations and may therefore cause a variety of symptoms leading to their discovery. However, there are instances in which a NEN first presents clinically as a metastatic deposit, while the associated primary tumor is not easily identified using conventional imaging techniques because of small primary tumor sizes. In this setting (which is referred to as a “NEN of unknown primary”; NEN-UP), a tissue biopsy is often procured to allow the surgical pathologist to diagnose the metastatic lesion. If indeed a metastatic NEN-UP is found, several clues can be obtained from morphological assessment and immunohistochemical staining patterns that individually or in concert may help identify the primary tumor site. Herein, histological and auxiliary analyses of value in this context are discussed in order to aid the pathologist when encountering these lesions in clinical practice.
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Vahidfar N, Farzanehfar S, Abbasi M, Mirzaei S, Delpassand ES, Abbaspour F, Salehi Y, Biersack HJ, Ahmadzadehfar H. Diagnostic Value of Radiolabelled Somatostatin Analogues for Neuroendocrine Tumour Diagnosis: The Benefits and Drawbacks of [ 64Cu]Cu-DOTA-TOC. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1914. [PMID: 35454822 PMCID: PMC9027354 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) arise from secondary epithelial cell lines in the gastrointestinal or respiratory system organs. The rate of development of these tumours varies from an indolent to an aggressive course, typically being initially asymptomatic. The identification of these tumours is difficult, particularly because the primary tumour is often small and undetectable by conventional anatomical imaging. Consequently, diagnosis of NETs is complicated and has been a significant challenge until recently. In the last 30 years, the advent of novel nuclear medicine diagnostic procedures has led to a substantial increase in NET detection. Great varieties of exclusive single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals for detecting NETs are being applied successfully in clinical settings, including [111In]In-pentetreotide, [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-TOC/TATE, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE, and [64Cu]Cu-DOTA-TOC/TATE. Among these tracers for functional imaging, PET radiopharmaceuticals are clearly and substantially superior to planar or SPECT imaging radiopharmaceuticals. The main advantages include higher resolution, better sensitivity and increased lesion-to-background uptake. An advantage of diagnosis with a radiopharmaceutical is the capacity of theranostics to provide concomitant diagnosis and treatment with particulate radionuclides, such as beta and alpha emitters including Lutetium-177 (177Lu) and Actinium-225 (225Ac). Due to these unique challenges involved with diagnosing NETs, various PET tracers have been developed. This review compares the clinical characteristics of radiolabelled somatostatin analogues for NET diagnosis, focusing on the most recently FDA-approved [64Cu]Cu-DOTA-TATE as a state-of-the art NET-PET/CT radiopharmaceutical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Vahidfar
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419733133, Iran; (N.V.); (S.F.); (M.A.); (Y.S.)
| | - Saeed Farzanehfar
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419733133, Iran; (N.V.); (S.F.); (M.A.); (Y.S.)
| | - Mehrshad Abbasi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419733133, Iran; (N.V.); (S.F.); (M.A.); (Y.S.)
| | - Siroos Mirzaei
- Clinic Ottakring, Institute of Nuclear Medicine with PET-Center, 1220 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Ebrahim S. Delpassand
- RadioMedix, Inc., Houston, TX 77041, USA;
- Excel Diagnostics and Nuclear Oncology Center, Houston, TX 77042, USA
| | - Farzad Abbaspour
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada;
| | - Yalda Salehi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419733133, Iran; (N.V.); (S.F.); (M.A.); (Y.S.)
| | - Hans Jürgen Biersack
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
- Betaklinik Bonn, 53227 Bonn, Germany
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Ambrosini V, Zanoni L, Filice A, Lamberti G, Argalia G, Fortunati E, Campana D, Versari A, Fanti S. Radiolabeled Somatostatin Analogues for Diagnosis and Treatment of Neuroendocrine Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1055. [PMID: 35205805 PMCID: PMC8870358 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are rare and heterogeneous tumors that require multidisciplinary discussion for optimal care. The theranostic approach (DOTA peptides labelled with 68Ga for diagnosis and with 90Y or 177Lu for therapy) plays a crucial role in the management of NENs to assess disease extension and as a criteria for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) eligibility based on somatostatin receptor (SSTR) expression. On the diagnostic side, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA peptides PET/CT (SSTR PET/CT) is the gold standard for imaging well-differentiated SSTR-expressing neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). [18F]FDG PET/CT is useful in higher grade NENs (NET G2 with Ki-67 > 10% and NET G3; NEC) for more accurate disease characterization and prognostication. Promising emerging radiopharmaceuticals include somatostatin analogues labelled with 18F (to overcome the limits imposed by 68Ga), and SSTR antagonists (for both diagnosis and therapy). On the therapeutic side, the evidence gathered over the past two decades indicates that PRRT is to be considered as an effective and safe treatment option for SSTR-expressing NETs, and is currently included in the therapeutic algorithms of the main scientific societies. The positioning of PRRT in the treatment sequence, as well as treatment personalization (e.g., tailored dosimetry, re-treatment, selection criteria, and combination with other alternative treatment options), is warranted in order to improve its efficacy while reducing toxicity. Although very preliminary (being mostly hampered by lack of methodological standardization, especially regarding feature selection/extraction) and often including small patient cohorts, radiomic studies in NETs are also presented. To date, the implementation of radiomics in clinical practice is still unclear. The purpose of this review is to offer an overview of radiolabeled SSTR analogues for theranostic use in NENs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Ambrosini
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (V.A.); (G.L.); (G.A.); (E.F.); (D.C.); (S.F.)
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucia Zanoni
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Angelina Filice
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (A.F.); (A.V.)
| | - Giuseppe Lamberti
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (V.A.); (G.L.); (G.A.); (E.F.); (D.C.); (S.F.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Argalia
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (V.A.); (G.L.); (G.A.); (E.F.); (D.C.); (S.F.)
| | - Emilia Fortunati
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (V.A.); (G.L.); (G.A.); (E.F.); (D.C.); (S.F.)
| | - Davide Campana
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (V.A.); (G.L.); (G.A.); (E.F.); (D.C.); (S.F.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Annibale Versari
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (A.F.); (A.V.)
| | - Stefano Fanti
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialized Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (V.A.); (G.L.); (G.A.); (E.F.); (D.C.); (S.F.)
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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10
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Di Stasio GD, Cuccurullo V, Cascini GL, Grana CM. Tailored Molecular Imaging of Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma: Which Tracer and When. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 112:927-940. [PMID: 35051937 DOI: 10.1159/000522089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Pheochromocytoma (PCC) and paraganglioma (PGL) are rare neoplasms that fall within the category of neuroendocrine tumors. In the last decade, their diagnostic algorithm has been modified to include the evaluation of molecular pathways, genotype, and biochemical phenotype, in order to correctly interpret anatomical and functional imaging results and tailor the best therapeutic choices to patients. More specifically, the identification of germline mutations has led to a three-way cluster classification: pseudo-hypoxic cluster, cluster of kinase receptor signaling and protein translation pathways, and cluster of Wnt-altered pathway. In this context, functional imaging gained a crucial role in the management of these patients in agreement with the ever-growing concept of personalized medicine. In this paper, we provide an overview of three specific molecular pathways targeted by positron-emitting tracers to image PCCs and PGLs: catecholamine metabolism, somatostatin receptors, and glucose uptake. Finally, we recommend different flow charts for use in the selection of tracers for specific clinical scenarios, based on sporadic/inherited tumor and known/unknown mutation status.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincenzo Cuccurullo
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Precision Medicine, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucio Cascini
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Grana
- Nuclear Medicine Division, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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11
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Treglia G, Sadeghi R, Giovinazzo F, Galiandro F, Annunziata S, Muoio B, Kroiss AS. PET with Different Radiopharmaceuticals in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: An Umbrella Review of Published Meta-Analyses. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205172. [PMID: 34680321 PMCID: PMC8533943 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Functional imaging methods and, in particular, positron emission tomography (PET) using several radiopharmaceuticals may play a pivotal role in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms including neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) located in different sites, paraganglioma (PGL) and neuroblastoma (NB), recurrent medullary thyroid carcinoma (rMTC) and aggressive neuroendocrine neoplasms. Several radiopharmaceuticals can be used in this setting such as Gallium-68 somatostatin analogues (68Ga-SSA), Fluorine-18 fluorodihydroxyphenylalanine (18F-FDOPA), Gallium-68 exendin-4 (68Ga-exendin-4), Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG). This umbrella review provides an evidence-based summary about meta-analyses on diagnostic performance, prognostic value, clinical impact and safety of PET with different radiopharmaceuticals in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms. Overall, evidence-based data support the use of PET with different radiopharmaceuticals in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms but with specific indications for each radiopharmaceutical. Abstract Background: Several meta-analyses have reported quantitative data about the diagnostic performance, the prognostic value, the impact on management and the safety of positron emission tomography (PET) including related hybrid modalities (PET/CT or PET/MRI) using different radiopharmaceuticals in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms. We performed an umbrella review of published meta-analyses to provide an evidence-based summary. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of meta-analyses listed in PubMed/MEDLINE and Cochrane Library databases was carried out (last search date: 30 June 2021). Results: Thirty-four published meta-analyses were selected and summarized. About the diagnostic performance: 68Ga-SSA PET yields high diagnostic performance in patients with NETs and PGL; 18F-FDOPA PET yields good diagnostic performance in patients with intestinal NETs, PGL, NB, being the best available PET method in detecting rMTC; 68Ga-exendin-4 PET has good diagnostic accuracy in detecting insulinomas; 18F-FDG PET has good diagnostic performance in detecting aggressive neuroendocrine neoplasms. About the prognostic value: 68Ga-SSA PET has a recognized prognostic value in well-differentiated NETs, whereas 18F-FDG PET has a recognized prognostic value in aggressive neuroendocrine neoplasms. A significant clinical impact of 68Ga-SSA PET and related hybrid modalities in patients with NETs was demonstrated. There are no major toxicities or safety issues related to the use of PET radiopharmaceuticals in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms. Conclusions: Evidence-based data support the use of PET with different radiopharmaceuticals in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms with specific indications for each radiopharmaceutical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Treglia
- Clinic of Nuclear Medicine, Imaging Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Academic Education, Research and Innovation Area, General Directorate, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera italiana, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-(91)-8118919
| | - Ramin Sadeghi
- Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9919991766, Iran;
| | - Francesco Giovinazzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (F.G.)
| | - Federica Galiandro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (F.G.)
| | - Salvatore Annunziata
- UOC Medicina Nucleare, TracerGLab, Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Barbara Muoio
- Department of Medicine and Oncology, Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland;
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