Endoscopic features of gastric carcinoids

Endoscopic findings were studied in eight patients with gastric carcinoid tumors. Five patients had a single tumor and the remainder had multiple tumors. Endoscopic examinations revealed smooth, submucosal masses rounded in shape in all patients. In six patients, the lesion was accompanied by an irregularly shaped erythematous depression or ulceration, which was considered to be a characteristic endoscopic finding of gastric carcinoid. An accurate preoperative diagnosis was made in six patients by endoscopy in combination with biopsy.