Neuroendocrine tumors of Meckel's diverticulum: lessons from a single institution study of eight cases.

INTRODUCTION: Endocrine tumors of Meckel's diverticulum are rare. Their clinical and pathological characteristics are not well known, making it difficult to assess the best strategy for therapeutic management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight cases of endocrine tumors of Meckel's diverticulum, submitted to surgical resection in our institution between 1977 and 2009, were studied. Clinical charts were reviewed; classification, grading, and staging were performed according to recent international recommendations. Five cases, including two associated with the carcinoid syndrome, were revealed by mesenteric mass or liver metastases; three cases were diagnosed incidentally at laparotomy or laparoscopy.

RESULTS: All cases presented as typical well-differentiated midgut endocrine tumors. Five cases were associated with mesenteric lymph node metastases; three presented with liver metastases. Seven cases were classified as well-differentiated endocrine carcinomas, one as well-differentiated endocrine tumor of benign behavior.

DISCUSSION: All tumors >1 cm, but one, had regional or distant disease. All patients had complete surgical resection of the primary. One patient deceased after 25 months; the others were alive after 12-101 months.

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, endocrine tumors of Meckel's diverticulum are rarely symptomatic and often diagnosed at an advanced stage. All tumors measuring more than 1 cm in diameter must be resected according to oncological principles.