Positron emission tomography (PET) scans using a radiolabeled compound has revolutionized the imaging of neuroendocrine tumors. The use of a compound that binds specifically to a receptor in the tumor has significantly improved performance.
Reasons to perform imaging studies on a neuroendocrine tumor:
(1) To identify the source for an elevated level of a hormone or secretory product.
(2) To determine if a neuroendocrine tumor may have metastasized.
(3) To identify where metastases from a neuroendocrine tumor are located.
(4) To monitor response to therapy.
Recommendations for the use of imaging studies:
(1) Combine a positron emission tomography (PET) scan with a CT or MRI scan.
