Carcinoid Syndrome

Question 1

Define carcinoid syndrome.

Answer 1

Carcinoid syndrome occurs due to release of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) and other vasoactive peptides into the systemic circulation from a carcinoid tumour. A carcinoid tumour is a neuroendocrine tumour.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of carcinoid syndrome.

Answer 2

Genetic multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1) syndrome

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of carcinoid syndrome.

Answer 3

The incidence of carcinoid syndrome in a population in central Sweden was estimated as being approximately 0.5 per 100,000 population per year.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of carcinoid syndrome. Recognise the signs of carcinoid syndrome on physical examination.

Answer 4

Diarrhoea
Flushing
Palpitations
Abdominal cramps
Telangiectasia
Signs of right heart failure
Cardiac murmurs
Hepatomegaly

Question 5

Identify appropriate investigations for carcinoid syndrome and interpret the results.

Answer 5

Serum chromogranin A/B
Urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid
Metabolic panel
Liver function tests
Full blood count