Carcinoid and other metabolically active tumors in the elderly.

This article reviews the clinical manifestations, diagnostic techniques, and therapy of carcinoid and other metabolically active tumors that occur in the elderly. These tumors secrete monoamine and polypeptide hormones into the vascular compartment. Because these hormones may produce symptoms early in the course of the illness and are amenable to measurement, physicians have the opportunity to make a prompt diagnosis.