Neuroendocrine Tumor Grading

When talking about neuroendocrine tumor grading, the systematic assessment that assigns a grade to neuroendocrine neoplasms based on their biology. Also known as NET grading, it tells doctors how aggressive a tumor might be and which therapies make sense.

One of the core tools behind grading is the WHO classification, the worldwide standard that divides NETs into G1, G2, and G3 categories. This classification encompasses the Ki‑67 index, a percentage that measures how quickly tumor cells are dividing, which influences the grade assigned. The higher the Ki‑67, the higher the grade, and the more aggressive the disease tends to be. Understanding this relationship lets clinicians predict prognosis, the likely course and survival outlook for a patient with greater confidence.

Imaging plays a supporting role. Somatostatin receptor imaging, techniques like Ga‑68 DOTATATE PET that highlight receptor‑positive tumor tissue often reveals the extent of disease and can affect the final grade when functional activity is considered. Meanwhile, cross‑sectional scans (CT, MRI) provide size and invasion data that, together with histology, complete the grading picture. This blend of pathology and imaging requires a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring that each piece of information informs the others.

Why does all this matter? Grading directly guides treatment decisions. Low‑grade (G1) NETs may be managed with watchful waiting or targeted somatostatin analogues, while high‑grade (G3) lesions often need systemic chemotherapy or peptide‑receptor radionuclide therapy. Knowing the grade also helps clinicians discuss realistic expectations with patients, plan follow‑up intervals, and decide when to enroll in clinical trials.

Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each of these aspects—drug comparisons, safety tips, and practical guides that intersect with neuroendocrine tumor management. Whether you’re looking for the latest on targeted therapies or want to understand how grading impacts everyday care, the collection ahead provides actionable insights you can start using right away.