Carcinoid Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Carcinoid or carcinoid syndrome refers to a set of signs and symptoms that can appear as a complication of certain tumors. They are called carcinoid tumors , capable of secreting chemicals such as serotonin.
Although they are not the most common type of cancer, these tumors and the carcinoid syndrome can be very aggressive. Many people experience shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat. In this article we explain everything you need to know and how the disorder is treated.
What is carcinoid syndrome?
Carcinoid syndrome is a set of signs and symptoms that are due to the action of certain substances released by a tumor. According to an article published in the Medical Journal of Costa Rica and Central America, most carcinoid tumors develop from neuroendocrine cells of the digestive tract.
In fact, it is estimated that around 50% of all small bowel cancers are of this type. However, they can also appear in the lung, pancreas, and liver. The truth is that carcinoid syndrome only affects around 8% of people who have these tumors.
It is more common when there are extensive metastases in the liver. The tumor releases substances such as serotonin, histamine, and prostaglandins. All of them can act on many parts of the body and produce the characteristic symptoms.
Symptoms of carcinoid syndrome
According to specialists from the Mayo Clinic, one of the most frequent symptoms is redness of the skin. It usually affects the face and upper chest. This is because many of the chemicals mentioned cause vasodilation.
The redness appears abruptly and lasts between minutes and hours. Sometimes it is triggered by certain agents that also cause vasodilation, such as exercise or alcohol. It is accompanied by hypotension, dizziness, and fatigue.
Another common symptom is diarrhea. Especially when the tumor releases serotonin, since it acts on intestinal motility. Stools are often watery and abdominal cramps may appear.
Carcinoid syndrome also features tachycardia and shortness of breath. It is similar to an anxiety attack. Some people experience decreased sex drive, heart murmurs, and added breath sounds.
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