DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed, progressive malignant neoplasm Clinical diagnosis of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) types I and II allowed Tumors positive for somatostatin receptors by octreotide scintigraphy, such as: Pituitary Brain Endocrine pancreatic Lymphoma Carcinoid Melanoma Small cell lung Breast Disease not amenable to standard treatment OR Failed existing first and second line therapies (failed at least 1 regimen in the case of small cell lung cancer) Bone disease (no diffuse bone marrow involvement), pleural effusions, and ascites allowed