Carcinoid syndrome is a rare condition that occurs in individuals with carcinoid tumors, which are slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors. These tumors typically develop in the digestive tract, such as the stomach, small intestine, appendix, or rectum, but can also be found in the lungs or other parts of the body. Carcinoid syndrome is characterized by a set of symptoms caused by the release of certain chemicals, including serotonin, into the bloodstream by the tumor.
The most common symptoms of carcinoid syndrome include flushing of the skin, diarrhea, abdominal pain, wheezing, and heart palpitations. These symptoms may occur sporadically or persistently and can vary in intensity. In severe cases, carcinoid syndrome can lead to heart valve damage or carcinoid crisis, a life-threatening condition characterized by severe flushing, low blood pressure, and difficulty breathing.
Diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, blood and urine tests, and imaging studies to locate and assess the tumor. Treatment options for carcinoid syndrome focus on managing symptoms and may include medications to control hormone release, surgical removal of the tumor, or other targeted therapies.