What Gastroenterologists Should Know about Carcinoid Syndrome

Abstract

Carcinoid syndrome (CS) is the most common functional syndrome associated with neuroendocrine neoplasia (NEN), particularly in intestinal NEN with extensive liver metastases. Owing to the heterogenous symptomatic scenario present in CS, recognition of these patients may be challenging. In this review, we explore some key clinical factors used to identify patients affected by CS, with particular focus on differential diagnoses of diarrhea, which is the main symptom of CS. Moreover, we highlight the importance of nutritional screening as a clinical indication to prevent malnutrition and to manage the most common nutrient deficiencies present in these patients.

Keywords

• neuroendocrine tumors
• carcinoid syndrome
• diarrhea
• management