Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Cervix: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix (NECC) represents a rare and aggressive subtype of cervical cancer, comprising only a small fraction of cases. Here, we present a case report of a 32-year-old woman diagnosed with small cell NECC, detailing her clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, treatment course, and post-treatment outcomes. Despite its rarity, NECC poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its aggressive nature and distinct biological properties. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses play pivotal roles in diagnosis, with NECC often characterized by positive staining for specific protein markers. Treatment strategies for NECC depend on various factors, including cancer stage, patient characteristics, and tumor biology. While primary radical surgery has shown efficacy for early-stage NECC, advanced cases may necessitate a multimodal approach involving chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We compare our findings with existing literature, discussing the evolving landscape of NECC management and highlighting the need for individualized treatment approaches. Given the scarcity of randomized trials, managing NECC remains a complex endeavor, underscoring the importance of further research and collaborative efforts in optimizing patient outcomes.