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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffCarcinoid syndrome occurs when a rare cancerous tumor called a carcinoid tumor secretes certain chemicals into your bloodstream, causing a variety of symptoms. Carcinoid tumors occur most commonly in your gastrointestinal tract, in your lungs or, rarely, in the ovaries.
Because carcinoid tumors generally grow slowly, you typically wouldn't experience symptoms until they're quite advanced. You might discover you have carcinoid cancer through a test for an unrelated disease or condition.
Treatment for carcinoid syndrome usually involves treating the cancer. However, because most carcinoid tumors don't cause carcinoid syndrome until they're advanced, a cure may not be possible. In those cases, medications may relieve your symptoms of carcinoid syndrome and make you more comfortable.
