Carcinoid tumors

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Definition

Carcinoid tumors are an unusual, slow-growing type of cancer that can arise in several places throughout your body. They most commonly appear in the gastrointestinal tract (appendix, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum) and in the lungs. But, carcinoid tumors can also begin in other organs, including the ovaries and testes.

These rare tumors differ from more common cancers in several ways. They grow slowly and rarely cause any signs or symptoms until late in the disease. Even under a microscope a carcinoid tumor can appear to be noncancerous (benign), even though it may have already spread. Carcinoid tumors can also produce and release hormones into your body that cause signs and symptoms, such as diarrhea or skin flushing.

Because of the lack of early signs and symptoms, diagnosing carcinoid tumors early can be challenging. In many cases, carcinoids are found during a test or procedure for an unrelated condition. Once they are detected, treatment usually involves surgery to remove the carcinoid tumor. In people whose carcinoid tumor has not spread, survival rates after surgery are excellent.

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Symptoms