duodenal carcinoid

Carcinoid tumors are low-incidence tumors of the digestive tract, accounting for only 0.4%–1.8% of gastrointestinal tumors. Duodenal carcinoids originate from Kulchitsky cells (enterochromaffin cells) of the intestine and can produce various amine and peptide hormones, belonging to the category of neuroendocrine tumors. The tumors are generally small and may be solitary or multiple. As the tumor grows, features of malignant infiltration and growth may appear. The incidence of duodenal carcinoids is even lower, accounting for only 1.3% of all gastrointestinal carcinoids and 5% of small intestinal carcinoids. They are most commonly found in the second part of the duodenum, followed by the first part.