Carcinoid Crisis

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Complications of carcinoid syndrome may arise due to abnormally high levels of substances produced by a functional neuroendocrine tumor. These complications can include carcinoid crisis.  Carcinoid crisis is a potentially life-threatening complication of carcinoid syndrome caused by the sudden release of high levels of serotonin and other active substances from a neuroendocrine tumor.   The release of these large amounts of hormones into the bloodstream can lead to severe symptoms such as flushing, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and difficulty breathing.

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This sudden release of active substances may be caused by tumor manipulation during surgery, needle biopsy of the tumor, or the administration of anesthesia agents.  To protect against a carcinoid crisis during surgery, a patient should be treated with a somatostatin analog, such as Octreotide, either before and/or during the procedure.  Octreotide is usually administered by intravenous infusion if the procedure is prolonged.  Some health care providers may not be aware of the threat of a carcinoid crisis and how to protect against it.  Neuroendocrine cancer patients are encouraged to speak with health care providers about the potential of a carcinoid crisis during surgery.  

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