Carcinoid Syndrome

Abstract

The carcinoid syndrome appears when vasoactive substances released by a carcinoid tumor reach the systemic circulation. Its clinical features include flushing, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bronchospasm, and valvular lesions. Carcinoid heart disease affects more than half of the patients with carcinoid syndrome, mostly involving the right heart, especially in the form of tricuspid insufficiency. Somatostatin analogs, the first-line treatment of the carcinoid syndrome, improve symptoms, but are not associated with tumor regression. Recent improvement in the morbidity and mortality associated with cardiac surgery makes this treatment a useful option in patients with controlled metastatic disease and valvular involvement that jeopardizes right ventricular function.