Addressing the Physiologic and Psychological Symptoms Associated with Carcinoid Tumors

Carcinoid tumors are atypical neoplasms that commonly originate in the gastrointestinal tract. Demographic characteristics such as age, sex, and race are relevant factors that contribute to the rising prevalence of the disease. A distinct feature of the tumor's progression is a condition referred to as carcinoid syndrome. Carcinoid syndrome is a rare but critical complication of the carcinoid tumor. A fluctuation in the neurotransmitter, serotonin, affects the mental health stability of clients with the disorder. Detection and management by nurse practitioners of carcinoid tumors requires astute knowledge of the carcinoid disease process and competency to address both the physiologic and psychological variations.