Treatment of Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumors
What are gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors?
Gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors are a type of cancer that forms within the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI system, known as the digestive system, processes food for energy and rids the body of waste. Cancer begins when cells begin to grow out of control. Around two-thirds of all carcinoid tumors appear in the digestive system. Gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors often are scattered throughout various organs, like the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, intestines, and lungs. They are characterized by being rare and growing slowly over many years.
What causes gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors?
The cause of most gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors is a result of mutations in the genes. These mutations occur after a person is born, rather than having been inherited. However, a small portion of carcinoid tumors can be caused by inherited gene mutations.
What are the risk factors of gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors?
Risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors. These include the following:
- A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome.
- Certain conditions affecting the ability to produce stomach acid.
- Smoking.
What are the signs of gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors?
In the early stages, carcinoid tumors do not cause symptoms. These tumors may only be found during routine tests or treatments for other conditions. Carcinoid tumors in the small intestine, colon, or rectum cause symptoms as they grow because of the hormones they make. Common signs of gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors include the following:
- Abdominal pain.
- Constipation.
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Yellowing of the skin and white of eyes (Jaundice).
- Heartburn.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Blood in the stool.
If the tumor has spread to the liver and the liver enzymes cannot destroy the additional hormones created by the tumor, this may cause the body to go into carcinoid syndrome. This can also occur if tumor cells enter the blood. The signs and symptoms of carcinoid syndrome include:
- Redness or a feeling of warmth in the face and neck.
- Abdominal pain.
- Diarrhea.
- Feeling bloated.
- Wheezing or trouble breathing.
- Fast heartbeat.
What are treatment options for gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors?
For gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors, the first option is usually surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tissue as possible and to determine the type of tumor. The Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology Multidisciplinary Team at Karmanos Cancer Institute design individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s age, tumor type, tumor quantity, and tumor location.
New treatments are being evaluated in clinical trials. Speaking with your health care provider will allow you to find the best treatment option for you.
Early detection is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against cancer. When it comes to world-class cancer care close to home, look no further than Karmanos.
Information includes gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.