Q-19. Neuro-endocrinal tumors can be best detected by (AIIMS Nov 2001)
a) PET scan
b) HRCT Scan
c) MRI
d) Radio-nucleotide Scan
Answer: Radio-nucleotide Scan
Explanation:
The diagnosis of neuro-endocrine tumors is based on histopathology, imaging, and circulating biomarkers.
The histopathology should contain specific neuro-endocrine markers such as chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and neuron-specific enolase.
Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy is now the imaging modality of choice for localizing both primary and metastatic NET tumor.
Important point:
68Ga-DOTA-octreotate scans will in the future replace somatostatin receptor scintigraphy because they have higher specificity and sensitivity.