carcinoïd

Carcinoid tumors are a type of slow-growing cancer that arises from neuroendocrine cells. These cells are found throughout the body, particularly in the digestive tract, lungs, and pancreas. Carcinoid tumors can develop in various locations, but the most common sites are the appendix, small intestine, and rectum.

Symptoms of carcinoid tumors vary depending on their location and whether they secrete hormones. Many carcinoid tumors, especially those in the appendix, do not cause symptoms and are found incidentally during surgery for other conditions. When symptoms do occur, they can include flushing of the skin, diarrhea, abdominal pain, wheezing, and heart valve problems. The hormone secreted by some carcinoid tumors, serotonin, is responsible for many of these symptoms, collectively known as carcinoid syndrome.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI, along with blood or urine tests to measure hormone levels. Biopsy and histological examination of the tumor cells are essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the tumor's grade.

Treatment for carcinoid tumors depends on the tumor's stage, location, and whether it is producing hormones. Surgery is the primary treatment for localized tumors. For more advanced or metastatic disease, medications to control hormone production, such as somatostatin analogs, may be used. Chemotherapy and targeted therapies are also options in certain cases. Due to their slow-growing nature, many carcinoid tumors have a good prognosis, especially when diagnosed and treated early.