Abstract:

Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix (NECC) is a rare and highly malignant gynecological carcinoma. Clinically, the origin and pathogenesis of NECC are not clear. There is no standard treatment protocol for NECC. Most of the treatments are based on the experience of cervical squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and small cell lung cancer. Recent genomic studies in large sample cohorts have shown that different genomic characteristics between NECC and extracervical neuroendocrine carcinoma, raising questions about the biological and therapeutic correlation between NECC and extracervical neuroendocrine carcinoma. Due to the rarity of NECC, it is difficult to obtain sufficient numbers of patients for efficacy trials, making it difficult to develop a standard treatment regimen for NECC. Genetic testing provides a strategy for individualized treatment of NECC with targeted drugs. Multiple studies have shown that NECC has potential modifiable therapeutic targets, and the combination of immunotherapy and radiation therapy can prolong long-term survival in patients with advanced recurrent NECC. This article reviews the molecular characteristics, targeted drugs and immunotherapy of NECC.

Key words: Carcinoma, neuroendocrine, Uterine cervical neoplasms, Immunotherapy, Antineoplastic combined chemotherapy protocols, Antineoplastic agents