Carcinoid tumours of the rectum

Carcinoid tumours of the rectum occur relatively seldom. The personal experience was 11/20,0000 rectoscopies. The symptoms are not characteristic. Such tumours can mostly be detected by chance. The basic diagnosis can only be achieved through thorough histological examinations. The tumours are usually not larger than 1 1/2 cm in diameter. Usually are restricted to the mucosa and submucosa, are solitary and can be treated perfectly with endoscopic excision. In case the tumour either invades the muscular layer, reaches or exceeds the diameter of 2 cm, or occurs in a multiple form a radical surgical approache is needed, resection should be performed.