What tests are used to diagnose carcinoid syndrome?

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What tests are used to diagnose carcinoid syndrome?

Healthcare providers use blood and urine tests, followed by imaging tests. The blood and urine tests identify biomarkers such as the presence or absence of certain substances and hormones. The imaging tests will confirm that a neuroendocrine tumor is responsible for your carcinoid syndrome.

Those tests may include:

  • Urine test. This test checks on certain hormone levels.
  • Physical exam and medical history. Many carcinoid syndrome symptoms are similar to other less serious illnesses. Your healthcare provider will ask questions about specific symptoms, how long you’ve had the symptoms and if your symptoms are getting worse.
  • Blood tests. These tests check on the amounts of substances that your organs and tissues release into your blood. Substance levels that spike or fall might be signs of disease.
  • Neuroendocrine positron emission tomography (PET) scan. This test tracks neuroendocrine tumors with a dye called Gallium 68 dotatate.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan. CT scans use X-rays and a computer to produce 3-D images of organs and bones.
  • Ultrasound. Ultrasounds use sound waves to develop images of organs and bones.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
  • Endoscopy. This test uses a long thin tube with a camera and a light that’s inserted into your body.

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