Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Patients with carcinoid syndrome usually die from carcinomatosis, rather than the pharmacological effects of the tumour. Functioning carcinoid tumours are resistant to radiotherapy. Twenty-four different cytotoxic drugs or combinations have been used to treat the carcinoid syndrome, but only actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, 5-fluorouracil, melphalan, methotrexate, and streptozotocin have been tried as single agents in more than five patients. 5-Fluorouracil and streptozotocin were the most effective single agents, but their use in combination did not increase response rates. No drug combination was superior to single-agent therapy. Adriamycin has not been tested as a single agent, but results with it used in combination suggest it should be further evaluated. Liposome-encapsulated drugs may be tested, because of selective hepatic uptake.

Type

Journal article

Journal

Cancer Chemother Pharmacol

Publication Date

1981

Volume

5

Pages

133 - 138

Keywords

Antineoplastic Agents, Drug Therapy, Combination, Humans, Malignant Carcinoid Syndrome