Alternative Names & Classifications:
Carcinoid Syndrome (CLINICAL)
Description
Carcinoid syndrome occurs when a well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (usually originating in the gastrointestinal tract) metastasizes to the liver. Once in the liver, the tumor's secreted hormones—particularly serotonin, histamine, and tachykinins—bypass hepatic processing and enter the systemic circulation directly. These potent vasoactive chemicals wreak havoc on blood vessels, the gut, and the heart.