Unusual paraneoplastic syndrome accompanies neuroendocrine tumours of the pancreas.

Neuroendocrine tumours comprise a small percentage of pancreatic neoplasia (10%) (1). Diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumours is difficult, especially if the tumours are small and nonfunctional. CT scans, MRI, and nuclear scans are sufficiently sensitive assessment tools for tumours with diameters of at least 2 cm; otherwise, the sensitivity and specificity of these techniques is less than 50% (2).

Linear endoscopic ultrasonography vs magnetic resonance imaging in ampullary tumors.

Aim: To assess linear endoscopic ultrasound (L-EUS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in biliary tract dilation and suspect small ampullary tumor.

Methods: L-EUS and MRI data were compared in 24 patients with small ampullary tumors; all with subsequent histological confirmation. Data were collected prospectively and the accuracy of detection, histological characterization and N staging were assessed retrospectively using the results of surgical or endoscopic treatment as a benchmark.

The natural history of upper gastrointestinal subepithelial tumors: a multicenter endoscopic ultrasound survey.

Goals: To evaluate the natural course of <3-cm upper gastrointestinal subepithelial tumors by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and to determine the appropriate timing for EUS follow-up.

Background: Subepithelial tumors (SETs) can range from benign lesions to tumors with malignant behavior or potential to become malignant such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). EUS is considered a valuable tool for their evaluation as it estimates the exact size and layer of origin, and also additional morphologic features that can suggest the diagnosis.