Carcinoid Heart Disease

J Adv Pract Oncol. 2024 Jul;15(5):321-323. doi: 10.6004/jadpro.2024.15.5.4. Epub 2024 Jul 1.

Abstract

Carcinoid heart disease (CHD) is a rare but potentially life-threatening sequela of advanced neuroendocrine neoplasm with carcinoid syndrome. These tumors can secrete vasoactive substances of which serotonin is the most prevalent. Carcinoid heart disease typically involves the right-sided heart valves and eventually leads to right heart failure. Monitoring N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid at diagnosis and during treatment, as well as cardiac echocardiogram, helps to screen for CHD. Many patients are not screened for this appropriately. Multidisciplinary care for patients with CHD is ideal and involves medical oncology, cardiology, and cardiothoracic surgery.