Endocrine

Carcinoid Tumour

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Pathology

Tumour of enterochromaffin cells of neural crest secreting 5-hydroxytriptamine
Location: Appendix (45%), ileum (30%), rectum (20%), ovary/testis (5%)
80% tumours >2cm metastasize.

Aetiology

Commonest neuroendocrine tumour. 
Peak age >30 years

Signs

Flushing, right-sided heart valve disease, peripheral oedema

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, wheeze

Investigations

Urine: 24 hour collection for 5-hyroxyindoleacetic acid
Imaging: CT/MRI to locate tumour

Treatment

Medical: Ocreotide (blocks tumour mediators and reduces peripheral effects) 
and 5-HT antagonists
Surgical: Resection of tumour, chemotherapy

Prognosis

5 year survival – 95% for local disease
Heart failure, liver metastasis

Key Facts

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Key Images

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Key References

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