Rapid Reversal of Carcinoid Crisis with a Somatostatin Analogue

Abstract

To the Editor: Naturally occurring somatostatin has been reported to be useful in correcting the hypotension and flushing seen in patients with the malignant carcinoid syndrome,^{1 , 2} although its practical usefulness has been limited by a very short half-life.Our initial experience with a longer acting analogue of somatostatin (Sandoz SMS 201–995)³ has been favorable in terms of ameliorating symptoms related to neuroendocrine tumors. The majority of patients have experienced striking relief of flushing and diarrhea and almost no toxic effects.⁴ Recently, life-threatening hypotension developed shortly after induction of anesthesia in a patient with the malignant carcinoid syndrome. After traditional measures . . .