A clinical study of 30 gastric carcinoids

The clinical picture in 30 patients operated on for gastric carcinoids was studied retrospectively. There were 12 men and 18 women, with an age range of 32-79 years (mean 57 years). The tumours were located in the corpus area of the stomach in more than half of the patients and in one-third were relatively small (less than or equal to 1 cm). Four patients had multiple tumours. Metastases were found in eight patients, mostly those with larger primary tumours. In no case was the carcinoid syndrome present. The patients presented symptoms simulating those of more common affections of the stomach, such as polyps, ulcer and carcinoma. Barium contrast study and gastroscopy did not reveal the true nature of the gastric disease and even biopsy of the stomach failed to give a correct preoperative diagnosis in four of five patients. Since six patients had achylia preoperatively, it is emphasized that the possibility of a gastric carcinoid, especially in the corpus area, is more likely in association with this condition.