Case List History Objectives Radiology Images Questions SMALL INTESTINE AND APPENDIX Case #2 - A 30 year old with suspected acute appendicitis DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 5.) What is the carcinoid syndrome? When does it occur? How can it be diagnosed? How can it be treated? The carcinoid syndrome is characterized by episodic attacks of cutaneous flushing, bronchospasm, diarrhea, and vasomotor collapse. This syndrome occurs in less than 5% of patients with malignant metastatic carcinoid tumors. It is more common with small bowel tumors that have liver metastases. Because the syndrome results from tumor secretion of serotonin, substance P, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, the diagnosis can be made by repeated detection of urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid. Treatment is removal of all tumor but this is rarely possible. Symptoms are managed with Sandostatin, Streptozotocin and 5-FU.
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