Carcinoid tumours

Respiratory (12%) Core Clinical Conditions

2B The Physician Associate is able to undertake the day to day management of the patient and condition once the diagnosis and strategic management decisions have been made by another.

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Definition Aetiology Pathophysiology Risk factor Sign and Symptoms Investigations Management

Carcinoid tumours are a type of neuroendocrine tumour that may occur in several organs of the body e.g. the lungs, GI tract, appendix and other organs.

Unknown causes, however could be:

• Genetic predisposition.

• Environmental causes.

• Exposure to some chemicals.

Carcinoid tumours originate from neuroendocrine cells. These cells are responsible for hormone production and secretion. These tumour cells produce excess hormones as they grow slowly and gradually over an extended period of time. Symptoms occur when the body secretes an excessive amount.

• Female gender.

• A history of carcinoid tumours in the family.

• Exposure to hazardous substances such as radon or asbestos.

• Age > 60.

• Flushing.

• Diarrhoea.

• Abdominal pain.

• Wheezing.

• O/E: enlarged liver or abdominal mass.

• Physical examination.

• CXR / CT scan / MRI scan of suspected area.

• Liver ultrasound.

• Biomarkers: chromogranin A (CgA).

• Specialist treatment.

• Surgery may be considered in severe cases.

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