Neuroendocrine tumors history and symptoms

Neuroendocrine tumors Microchapters
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
History and Symptoms
Laboratory Findings
CT scan
PET scan
Medical Therapy
Surgery

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Symptoms

According to Arnold et alia, "many tumors are asymptomatic even in the presence of metastases" (Arnold et al. 2004, 197).

A carcinoid tumor may produce serotonin (5-HT), a biogenic amine that causes a specific set of symptoms including

• Flushing
• Diarrhea or increase in number of bowel movements
• Weight loss
• Weight gain
• Palpitations
• Congestive heart failure (CHF)
• Asthma
• Acromegaly
• Cushing's syndrome

This set of symptoms is called carcinoid syndrome.