Extrapulmonary neuroendocrine carcinomas (EP-NECs) are aggressive, fast-growing tumours that can be challenging to diagnose and treat. This infographic clarifies the distinctions between neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) and NECs, highlighting the diagnostic hurdles, the emerging role of DLL3-targeted therapies, and key strategies for patient care.

 

View or download the infographic to find out more about:

 

  • NETs vs. NECs: Key differences in cell differentiation, growth, prognosis, and biomarker expression
  • Diagnostic Gaps: Overcoming misdiagnosis and specialist access barriers
  • DLL3 & T Cell Engagers: Visualising the mechanism of action of T cell engagers and DLL3 as a promising novel therapeutic target
  • Importance of accessing specialist advice and emotional care

 

 

Clinical takeaways

  • Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are aggressive and often subject to misdiagnosis and treatment challenges
  • NECs frequently over-express DLL3, a promising novel therapeutic target
  • Support networks are key for patient and caregiver emotional support
  1. To highlight the key differences between neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs), to support greater awareness and disease understanding
  2. To increase awareness and understanding of the complex nature and burden of disease associated with (extra-pulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma) EP-NEC
  3. To share perspectives from both patients and HCPs on diagnosis and treatment journeys in EP-NEC and improve understanding of potential future treatment options in EP-NEC

Meredith is a highly driven and dedicated health professional who thrives on delivering world class care to neuroendocrine cancer patients and enhancing the skills of other health professionals to deliver this care nationally and internationally. 

She has been involved in Oncology for over 40 years in metropolitan, rural, international, public, and private settings. 

Meredith joined NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (NECA) in 2018 in the role of national Project Officer / CRA / Telehealth Nurse. She has had principal roles in the writing of the NET GP / Nurse Education Modules and the NET Optimal Care Pathway. Meredith became the CEO of NECA in October 2022. Currently Meredith is on the Expert Advisory Group for the Australian Cancer Nurses Navigation program and the working group for Specialist Support Service. 

Areas of Advocacy in the past 18 months have been presenting at the Senate Inquiry for Equity of Access For Diagnostics and treatments for Rare and Less Common Cancers, Including Neuroendocrine Cancers and also lobbying for the Von Hippel Lindau community for the recommendation and listing of Belzutifan on the PBS.  

She is also Chair of the Finance and Risk Audit Committee and on the Board of Directors for Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA), Board of Directors for International NeuroEndocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA) President-Elect and Chair of the INCA Research Committee. 

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