Carcinoid Heart Disease is a rare condition that develops as a result of Carcinoid Syndrome. Carcinoid Syndrome is a collection of symptoms that occur due to the release of certain chemicals (serotonin, bradykinins, and prostaglandins) by neuroendocrine tumors called carcinoid tumors. These tumors are typically found in the digestive tract, particularly in the small intestine. However, they can also occur in other areas of the body like the lungs or appendix.
Carcinoid Heart Disease specifically refers to the involvement of the heart in Carcinoid Syndrome. The released chemicals from the carcinoid tumors can cause fibrosis (formation of scar tissue) in the heart valves, leading to their dysfunction. The most commonly affected valve is the tricuspid valve, followed by the pulmonary valve. This fibrosis and valve dysfunction can result in a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, edema (swelling), and palpitations.
The severity of Carcinoid Heart Disease can vary from person to person, ranging from mild valve thickening to significant valve regurgitation (leakage) or stenosis (narrowing). In severe cases, it can lead to heart failure. Treatment options for Carcinoid Heart Disease may include medications to control symptoms, surgical repair or replacement of affected heart valves, and somatostatin analogs (medication that blocks the release of certain chemicals).
Overall, Carcinoid Heart Disease is a rare complication of Carcinoid Syndrome, characterized by fibrosis and dysfunction of the heart valves, which can result in various cardiac symptoms and potentially lead to heart failure if left untreated.
