What are the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome? One of my doctors thinks I might have it. What is it? If I have it, what is usually the outlook?
Carcinoid tumors are slowly growing malignancies (cancerous growths) that usually occur in the ileum, the lower section of the small intestine. These tumors secrete excessive amounts of normal body chemicals such as serotonin, bradykinin, histamine, and prostagladins. Carcinoid syndrome might be suspected when high levels of these substances appear in the urine.
Symptoms, which often develop only after the tumor has metastasized or spread, include flushing of the face and neck, abnormal heartbeat, swelling in the face and eye area, abdominal pain and diarrhea, weight loss, and low blood pressure.
Carcinoid tumors might spread to the liver, lungs, pancreas, spleen, ovaries, and other organs, so early treatment is essential.
Carcinoid syndrome can be treated with surgery to remove the accessible tumors, or with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to destroy the tumors. A high-protein diet with a niacin supplement might also be prescribed to ensure you are getting adequate nutrition, since many essential vitamins and minerals might not be properly absorbed in people who have carcinoid syndrome.
The prognosis, or outlook, depends on how soon the cancer is detected and where it is located. Some people fully recover after surgery. Many people may live five to 10 years after the cancer is detected, since the tumor grows slowly. Complications might occur if the tumors spread to the heart or liver.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 10/17/2007...#9660
