Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor associated with humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy and carcinoid tumor: A case report and review of the literature

摘要

We recognize that although neuroen-docrine tumors (NETs) are rare neoplasms, their incidence is rising. Because the majority of NETs are non-functioning, they are often discovered incidentally and at an advanced and progressive stage. In these cases, they may be unresectable and carry a poor prognosis. After reviewing the literature on the diagnosis and management of NETs, we would like to additionally emphasize that, in patients found to have incidental hypercal-cemia and elevated parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTH-rP), a workup for underlying malignancy should be performed and that NET should be in the differential diagnosis. This is particularly important because earlier diagnosis of NET is significant with regard to treatment options and prognosis.