Clinical Implications of Ki-67 Index, Grade and Hormonal Changes in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Insights Into Tumor Heterogeneity Based on Primary and Secondary Lesions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) show heterogeneity, including temporal shifts in proliferation and hormone production; however, their clinical implications remain uncertain.

Methods

This retrospective study included 114 patients with metastatic or recurrent PanNETs at Kyushu University Hospital. Paired specimens from 46 patients (27 synchronous metastases and 19 recurrences) were evaluated for Ki-67 index and tumor grade. Proliferation change was defined as grade progression or a ≥ 10% absolute Ki-67 increase. Hormonal phenotype changes were assessed in all patients.

Results

In metastases, mean Ki-67 increased from 12.3% to 16.4% (p = 0.0043); 22.2% showed a ≥ 10% increase, and 33.3% progressed in grade. In recurrences, Ki-67 increased from 8.8%

SUBMITTER: Murakami M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12924110 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature