Hemodynamic studies in a case of carcinoid cardiovascular syndrome

A case of malignant carcinoid metastatic to the liver with the typical features of the carcinoid cardiovascular syndrome has been presented. Hemodynamic data obtained at cardiac catheterization indicated the presence of tricuspid insufficiency, low cardiac output, and slight pulmonary hypertension. Unilateral pulmonary artery occlusion studies were reported that suggest the absence of intrinsic pulmonary vascular disease in this syndrome. The paradox of infrequent instances of significant pulmonary hypertension in the presence of serotonin in the reported cases of carcinoid cardiovascular syndrome was discussed. The effect of reserpine on pulmonary artery pressure was reported.