Prognostic markers in resected large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma: a multicentre retrospective analysis

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LCNEC) are a rare subset of lung cancers, accounting for 15% of neuroendocrine tumors and 2–3% of all lung cancers (1-2). The incidence could be even higher since neuroendocrine markers can be missed or misinterpreted if the diagnosis relies on small biopsy specimens (3). About 85% LCNEC present as a peripheral tumor in contrast to typical and atypical carcinoids and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) that are often located centrally (4). Unlike carcinoid tumors, LCNECs often are associated with male sex, older age, and smoking habit (5)