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What increases the chances of developing carcinoid syndrome?

Risk factors for carcinoid syndrome may include: having a family history of the syndrome, called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1); having neurofibromatosis, von Hippel-Lindau syndrome or tuberous sclerosis, or; having a family history of carcinoid tumors.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is carcinoid syndrome?

Carcinoid syndrome is a set of symptoms that are caused by an underlying carcinoid tumor of the neuroendocrine cells.

What are the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome?

Carcinoid syndrome may not show any symptoms. When they do occur, symptoms commonly include: flushing; diarrhea; wheezing and bronchospasms; heart palpitations; stomach cramps, and; low blood pressure.

What causes carcinoid syndrome?

The symptoms associated with carcinoid syndrome are due to underlying cancerous tumors of the neuroendocrine tissue, which release hormones into the bloodstream in response to chemical signals sent from the nervous system.

How is carcinoid syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome is based on measuring either the urine or blood levels of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (an acid produced during the breakdown of serotonin), and imaging tests to identify the location and size of the underlying cancerous …

How is carcinoid syndrome treated?

The primary treatment for carcinoid syndrome is surgical removal of the tumor. Other treatments may include ablation, chemotherapy and medication to ease the symptoms.

Can carcinoid syndrome be cured?

In some cases, complete removal of the underlying tumor is possible. For some people, by the time they have developed symptoms of carcinoid syndrome, the underlying tumor has spread too far for complete remission to be achieved.

Can carcinoid syndrome be prevented?

There is no known prevention for carcinoid tumors.

What is the outlook for carcinoid syndrome?

Early diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome can dramatically improve the outcome, but it will vary depending on the size, location and spread of the carcinoid tumor.

How common is carcinoid syndrome?

Carcinoid syndrome is estimated to affect around one in every 10 people with carcinoid tumors.

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Votes: 921 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Hyperthyroidism

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