Carcinoid Syndrome & VIPomas

Carcinoid Syndrome and VIPomas

Carcinoid tumors originate from cells of the neuroendocrine system and are most noted for their lack of defining symptoms or, conversely, upon metastasis, for the debilitating symptoms associated with the release of highly bioactive substances. The clinical symptoms of metastatic spread—referred to as carcinoid syndrome or carcinoid disease—are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, but are still so vague that misdiagnosis as more common disorders still occurs frequently (1, 2, 3). More accurate, easily performed, early diagnostic techniques are needed. Since most patients currently present with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, treatment options evolve along 2 paths — targeted therapies that remove the tumor and/or reduce hypersecretion at the site of the tumor where hormone overproduction starts, and peripheral therapies that can provide added benefit in masking the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome.

This section of the site provides information about carcinoid syndrome/VIPomas, including:

• Epidemiology and Pathophysiology
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
  • Targeted Treatments
  • Peripheral Treatments
  • Treatment Summary
• Sandostatin LAR® Depot and Carcinoid Syndrome