Carcinoid syndrome in the practice of the endocrinologist

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors derived from neuroendocrine cells of the embryonic intestine. Functioning NEO, secreting biologically active peptides, may be accompanied by the development of a complex of pathognomonic symptoms, the so-called. carcinoid syndrome (CS), which makes it possible to suspect a serious diagnosis in a patient with a high probability. The review provides detailed information about the epidemiology of the NETs and the CS, the pathophysiology and the clinical picture of the CS (hot flashes, diarrhea, carcinoid heart disease). Criteria for diagnosis of CS and NETs are discussed. General approaches to the treatment of CS and NETs are presented; the leading place among them is occupied by the use of somatostatin analogues, such as octreotide and lanreotide, including slow-release preparations. Management of patients with NETs requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists, which should necessarily include therapists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, surgeons, oncologists, and pathomorphologists. Close cooperation of specialists with each other is needed in order to make an accurate diagnosis, make a consensus treatment decision and develop an individualized treatment plan.

neuroendocrine tumors, carcinoid syndrome, serotonin, somatostatin analogues