Tumors with neuroendocrine morphology are a distinct subset of lung neoplasms sharing characteristic histologic, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and molecular features.
To review the current histologic classification and the diagnostic criteria for the major categories of neuroendocrine tumors of the lung.
Published classification systems from the World Health Organization and pertinent peer-reviewed articles indexed in PubMed (National Library of Medicine) form the basis of this review.
Accurate classification of the neuroendocrine tumors of the lung requires knowledge of specific criteria separating the major categories, which is essential for determining prognosis and treatment.