Interpretation of the post-surgical Somatostatin Receptor Scintigram of a Primary Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Thymus: a case report and literature review

A case of a thymic neuroendocrine tumor and the interpretation problems in a post-surgical Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy are presented. In a 53-year-old man with superior vena cava obstruction syndrome an atypical carcinoid of the thymus (neuroendocrine carcinoma of intermediate grade 2), was found at surgery. During his first year of follow-up a Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy was recommended. An area of abnormal concentration of the radiopharmaceutical was revealed in the mediastinum at this time. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms of the radiopharmaceutical uptake and of the various clinical settings in which uptake can occur are essential for a proper evaluation of the scintigraphic findings and result in the optimal use of this valuable modality. The literature review provides an overview of this rare type of tumor and insight into the clinical significance of Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy.