Gastric neuroendocrine tumor with Helicobacter pylori-associated chronic gastritis

Highlights

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  The increasing number of screening gastroscopies and biopsies have resulted in the frequent detection of ECL tumors.

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  They are regarded as a separate clinicopathological entity seen in the setting of hypergastrinemic states, and their pathogenesis follows the sequence “hyperplasia-dysplasia- neoplasia”.

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  Gastric NETs are divided into two broad categories: gastrin-dependent and non-gastrin dependent or sporadic, which are independent of the trophic effect of gastrin.

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  In view of its aggressive nature and significant mortality, non-gastrin dependent NET should be treated with partial or total gastrectomy.

Abstract

Introduction

Development of gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms in subjects infected with Helicobacter pylori is rare and it occurs through pathogenetic mechanisms related to gastrin.

Presentation of case

We report a case of gastric neuroendocrine tumor in a patient infected with Helicobacter pylori and normal gastrin levels. He was treated by endoscopic mucosal dissection after eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection. Histologically the tumor was consistent with a grade 2 well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor. It was characterized by the presence of lymphoid aggregates around and inside the neoplasia.

Discussion

Helicobacter pylori-associated chronic gastritis can rarely cause the development of gastric neuroendocrine tumors through mechanisms unrelated to gastrin.

Conclusion

The one related to a chronic Helicobacter pylori infection may be considered a distinct type of gastric neuroendocrine tumor.