Abstract
Carcinoid tumors secrete serotonin, which increases intestinal and gastric motility and tone, as well as the secretion of mucus from the stomach. The syndrome of functioning carcinoid tumors is produced by the presence of excessive amounts of serotonin in the blood. Not all the clinical features need be present for diagnosis. Demonstration of abnormal amounts of 5-hydroxy-3-indole acetic acid in the urine confirms the diagnosis. The amounts of this substance vary from time to time, and more than one determination may be needed to make the diagnosis. Postoperative urinary measurements of this chemical are valuable as a guide to the development of metastatic tumors. The treatment of choice is surgical removal of as much tumor tissue as possible. Irradiation and the administration of radioactive salts are of doubtful value. The use of serotonin “antagonists” has yielded disappointing results. Chlorpromazine and symptomatic measures for the relief of diarrhea, pain, and asthma are indicated.
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