What is Carcinoid Heart Disease?

In the past decade, the prevalence of carcinoid heart disease has increased dramatically. It is now estimated that over two million people in the United States are living with this condition. Most of these individuals are unaware that they have the disease. Symptoms include chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm, and irregular heartbeat. However, you should see your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. If you have any of these conditions, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Transthoracic echocardiography (TEE) is the gold standard for diagnosis of carcinoid heart disease. Patients with a high suspicion of carcinoid heart disease should have this test. A raised NT-proBNP or 5-HIAA is a sign of carcinoid heart disease. The best way to detect the condition is through an echocardiogram, which should be performed every three to six months. Other tests may include cardiac magnetic resonance, which is used to evaluate the pulmonary valve, identify tumor byproducts, and assess right ventricular size and function.

Symptoms of carcinoid heart disease are unpredictable and require close medical supervision. In the early stages of the disease, patients may experience no symptoms. In advanced cases, they may experience cardiac failure, which will require heart valve replacement surgery. This procedure is usually accompanied by chemotherapy and improves the patient’s quality of life. The high mortality rate is attributed to the severity of the disease and its late diagnosis.