Carcinoid Crisis

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.

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.