Carcinoid Syndrome and Its Causes
Carcinoid syndrome is a rare condition caused by tumors on the neuroendocrine system, most commonly from the gastrointestinal tract and lungs. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including skin flushing, diarrhea, wheezing, and abdominal pain. In some cases, carcinoid tumors can secrete hormones and other bioactive substances that can cause serious health complications if left untreated.
What Tumors Cause Carcinoid Syndrome?
Carcinoid syndrome is caused by tumors that are part of the neuroendocrine system. These tumors can originate in a variety of organs, including the lungs, stomach, small intestine, and appendix. Carcinoid tumors are usually slow-growing and may not cause any symptoms until they reach advanced stages.
Gastrointestinal Tumors
The most common cause of carcinoid syndrome is a tumor in the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors are usually found in the appendix, small intestine, and rectum, although they can occur in other parts of the digestive system. These tumors secrete hormones and other bioactive substances that can cause various symptoms, including flushing, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Lung Tumors
Carcinoid tumors of the lung can also cause carcinoid syndrome. These tumors are usually found in the central portion of the lung and can cause similar symptoms to those caused by gastrointestinal tumors.
Other Tumors
Carcinoid tumors can also occur in other parts of the body, including the pancreas, bile ducts, and ovaries. These tumors can cause carcinoid syndrome but are less common than tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and lungs.
Treatment of Carcinoid Syndrome
The main treatment for carcinoid syndrome is surgery to remove the tumor. In some cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used to help shrink the tumor or control the symptoms. In some cases, medications may be used to help control the symptoms.