Liver transplantation for neuroendocrine tumour liver metastases

Objective Search and review of available literature were made to define the indications for and timing of liver transplantation for neuroendocrine tumour (NET) liver metastases. Methods Electronic bibliographical databases were searched. Prospective and retrospective cohort studies and case-controlled studies were used for qualitative and quantitative synthesis of the systematic review. Reports of patients with liver transplantation alone for NET liver metastases of any origin or combined with resection of extrahepatic tumour deposits were recruited. Results The number of patients who have undergone liver transplantation for NET liver metastases is 706. The post-transplant 5-year survival rate from the time of diagnosis was approximately 70%. NET patients with metastases confined to the liver and not poorly differentiated are favourable candidates for liver transplantation. Selection of patients based on evolution of tumours over 6 months is not recommended. Conclusion Non-resectable NET liver metastasis resistant to medical treatment and confined to the liver is an accepted indication for liver transplantation.