Multidisciplinary reference centers: the need for combined expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors

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Introduction: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies with increasing incidence (Yao et al. J Clin Oncol 2008;26:3063–72). Multidisciplinary reference centers (MRCs) can potentially offer better clinical outcomes by integrating and coordinating expert care from many specialties, reducing delays in treatments and referrals, and allowing for accrual to clinical trials. MRCs have achieved improved outcomes in ovarian, breast and lung cancers (Pollock. Ann Surg 2008;248:510–6; Gabel et al. Cancer 1997;79:2380–4; Forrest et al. Br J Cancer 2005;93:977–8). Despite this, MRCs focusing on NETs are uncommon.

Aim(s): To review the need for and benefits of MRCs.

Materials and methods: The literature was searched to review the outcomes of patients with NETs treated at an MRC.

Conference: 7th Annual ENETSConcerence (2010)

Presenting Author:

Authors: Singh S, Law C,

Keywords: multidisciplinary, carcinoid, outcome, GEP-NET, interdisciplinary ,