Outcome of Pulmonary Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma After Definitive Treatment: A Single-Center Retrospective Review

Introduction Pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer. Given its poor prognosis and limited representation in clinical trials, the optimal treatment strategy remains undefined. This study aims to evaluate treatment modalities and clinical outcomes among LCNEC patients who received definitive treatment. Methods A retrospective review was conducted for patients diagnosed with LCNEC from 2000 to 2022 in a tertiary center. Clinical characteristics, staging, treatment modalities, molecular testing, and survival outcomes were collected. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Results Twenty-seven patients were included. The median age was 69.6 years; most were male (92.6%) and smokers (92.6%). Distribution by stage was as follows: I (29.6%), II (22.2%), and III (48.1%). Surgery was performed in 77.8%, and 33.3% received chemoradiotherapy. Adjuvant platinum-etoposide chemotherapy was administered in 42.8% of surgical cases. With a median follow-up of 75.9 months, the median PFS and OS were 9.6 and 20.8 months, respectively. The median OS by stage was as follows: I (30.2 months), II (23.5 months), and III (14.9 months). The recurrence rate was high (85.2%), with distant relapse being the most common (63%). Locoregional control was achieved in 40.7% of patients. Actionable mutations were detected in one patient (3.7%), and comprehensive molecular testing was underutilized. Conclusion LCNEC remains a clinically aggressive tumor with poor outcomes despite definitive treatment. The high recurrence rate, particularly in advanced stages, highlights the need for improved systemic strategies. Broader adoption of molecular profiling may uncover therapeutic targets and support the integration of emerging treatments, including immunotherapy.