Questions about Carcinoid Syndrome

Carcinoid syndrome is the set of symptoms that occur in patients who have carcinoid tumors.

Carcinoid syndrome occurs when carcinoid tumors overproduce substances such as serotonin.

The most common symptoms of carcinoid syndrome are flushing of the face, chest or back, and diarrhea. Other symptoms include heart valvular lesions, cramping, swelling of the hands or feet, wheezing, red spots on the skin (telangiectasia), blueness of the skin (cyanosis), rash (pellagra), and arthritis.

There are various tests your doctor can use to find out if you have carcinoid syndrome, including a 5-HIAA urine test, a Chromogranin A (CgA) blood test, and an imaging test called somatostatin receptor scintigraphy.

The main goal in treating carcinoid syndrome is to help you gain control of your symptoms.

The first step is to talk to your doctor about your symptoms. If you are diagnosed with carcinoid syndrome, there are effective treatments that may help reduce the symptoms and help you get back to a more normal lifestyle.

There are several treatments available. Your doctor will help you decide which treatment options are best for you.

Asking questions is a great way to take an active role in managing your carcinoid syndrome, and build an open communication with your healthcare providers. It's a good idea to write down your questions before doctor visits, so you can be sure you've asked them all. For a list of questions you may wish to ask, click here.

There are many resources available to you to find out more about carcinoid syndrome. For a listing of websites where you can find more information about the disease, as well as patient support groups, click here.