A specific type of well-differentiated NET that primarily arise from enterochromaffin cells in the gastrointestinal tract, but can also occur in the lungs.
2nd most common affected site after appendix.
Produce serotonin and other vasoactive substances.
Carcinoid syndrome:
metastasize to the liver , secreted hormones to enter the systemic circulation.ZZZ
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Flushing , & diarrhea, emesis and wheezing due to bronchoconstriction
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Heart failure, heart valve lesions.
Clinical presentation:
Obstruction, Bleeding, Metastasis to LN
Diagnosis:
- Symptoms of carcinoid syndrome (if liver metastasis)
Treatment:
Depends on the size of the tumor, the presence of metastasis, and the patient’s overall health.
- Small Carcinoid Tumors (≤2 cm): Appendectomy: Surgical resection (standard)
- Larger Carcinoid Tumors (>2 cm) or Tumors with Risk Factors: Right Hemicolectomy
Follow-Up and Monitoring:
- Regular Surveillance: with imaging studies and monitoring of tumor markers (like chromogranin A) is essential to detect recurrence or progression.
- Hormonal Monitoring: For patients with carcinoid syndrome, monitoring and managing hormone levels is crucial.
