Neuroendocrine carcinoma of gallbladder: report of 2 cases.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the gallbladder is rare. Its best treatment is not known. METHODS: Two patients underwent surgery earlier one for suspected cholecystitis and the other for cholelithiasis. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) showed residual lesions in the livers. The two patients underwent revision surgery followed by chemotherapy. RESULTS: Both patients tolerated the second stage surgery well, which was followed by chemotherapy with paclitaxel, ifosphamide and cisplatin for 6 cycles. They were treated this way for 8 months and 12 months post treatment, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A proper diagnosis of neuroendocrine carcinoma is made often after surgery. As it is a slow growing tumor and not very chemotherapeutically, sensitive surgery offers the best local control.