Intermediate
Technical
IVT
carcinoid syndrome
Systemic syndrome caused by hormone-secreting neuroendocrine tumors, characterized by flushing, diarrhea, and bronchospasm.
Full Definition
Carcinoid syndrome is a paraneoplastic syndrome resulting from the systemic release of bioactive substances (primarily serotonin, histamine, and prostaglandins) by neuroendocrine tumors, typically those arising in the gastrointestinal tract. Classic symptoms include episodic flushing, secretory diarrhea, bronchospasm, and in advanced cases, carcinoid heart disease. The syndrome usually occurs when hepatic metastases bypass the liver's metabolic capacity or when tumors drain directly into systemic circulation.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound adjective; maintain distinction from carcinoid tumor itself.
In Context
- "Elevated 24-hour urinary 5-HIAA levels confirmed the diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome." — Diagnostic workup report
- "Octreotide successfully controlled the flushing episodes associated with carcinoid syndrome." — Treatment response documentation
Also known as
carcinoid tumor syndrome
Don't confuse with
gastrinoma syndrome
VIPoma syndrome
serotonin syndrome