RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate and improve the diagnosis and management of small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the stomach (SCNECS).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The clinicopathological information and survival data of 21 cases of SCNECS treated in our hospital from January 2003 to December 2012 were analyzed retrospectively.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The median survival time of the 21 cases was (12.1±1.6) months. The 1-year overall survival rate of the patients was 33.3%. Univariate analysis showed that the risk factors of survival were tumor size, lymph node status, tumor stage, treatment and radical operation or not (P<0.05 for all). Multivariate analysis indicated that independent risk factors were tumor size ≥4.6 cm, lymph node metastasis and tumor stage III/IV (P<0.05 for all). Radical operation and comprehensive treatment (surgery + postoperative chemotherapy) were independent protective factors (all P<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>SCNECS is a rare malignant tumor with early metastasis and poor prognosis. Tumor size, stage, lymph node status, and treatment have potential impact on the prognosis. Comprehensive treatment based on radical operation may improve the survival of SCNECS patients.</p>