Carcinoid tumors

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Carcinoid Tumors

Carcinoid tumors (/kɑːrˈsɪnɔɪd/; from Greek karkinos, meaning "crab") are a type of neuroendocrine tumor that originates in the cells of the neuroendocrine system. These tumors are often slow-growing and can occur in several places throughout the body, most commonly in the lungs or gastrointestinal tract.

Etymology

The term "carcinoid" was first used in 1907 by the German pathologist Siegfried Oberndorfer. He used the term to describe tumors that seemed to be less aggressive than typical carcinomas. The term is derived from the Greek karkinos, meaning "crab", and the suffix -oid, meaning "like", due to the crab-like appearance of the tumors under a microscope.

Symptoms

Symptoms of carcinoid tumors can vary greatly depending on the location of the tumor. Common symptoms can include flushing, diarrhea, wheezing, and abdominal pain. In some cases, carcinoid tumors can lead to Carcinoid syndrome, a group of symptoms that can include flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of carcinoid tumors often involves a combination of medical imaging, blood tests, and biopsy. The 5-HIAA urine test is often used to detect the presence of carcinoid tumors.

Treatment

Treatment options for carcinoid tumors can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and somatostatin analogues. The choice of treatment often depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health.

Prognosis

The prognosis for carcinoid tumors can vary greatly depending on the location and stage of the tumor. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis.

See also

External links

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