PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What syndrome is characterized by flushing, bronchospasm, and diarrhea, associated with carcinoid tumors?

1. Multiple Myeloma

2. Carcinoid syndrome

3. Peptic ulcer disease

4. Dumping syndrome

The correct answer is: Carcinoid syndrome

Carcinoid syndrome is a condition that arises from neuroendocrine tumors known as carcinoid tumors, which predominantly occur in the gastrointestinal tract and can produce various bioactive substances, including serotonin. The classic triad of symptoms that characterize carcinoid syndrome includes flushing of the skin, bronchospasm, and diarrhea. Flushing occurs due to the release of vasoactive substances, namely serotonin and bradykinin, leading to vasodilation. This is often noticeable as a sudden reddening of the face and upper body. Bronchospasm can occur as a reaction to these same substances, causing airway constriction and difficulty in breathing, which can be significant in patients with underlying respiratory issues. Diarrhea is attributed to serotonin's effect on gut motility, often leading to persistent and debilitating gastrointestinal disturbances. The presence of these symptoms in a patient with a diagnosed carcinoid tumor supports the diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome and signifies the systemic effects of the tumor's secretions, particularly when the tumor metastasizes to the liver and releases a high volume of serotonin into the systemic circulation. Understanding carcinoid syndrome is crucial in the management of patients with carcinoid tumors to ensure proper symptomatic treatment and to possibly guide further investigation